Essentials of Medical Terminology: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Medical Terminology

This course provides a foundational study of medical terminology, focusing on the origin and structure of medical words. Students will learn to define, pronounce, and spell medical terms, and utilize them in context. The course covers prefixes, suffixes, root words, plurals, abbreviations, symbols, surgical procedures, medical specialties, and diagnostic procedures.

• Key Point 1: Understanding medical terminology is essential for effective communication in healthcare settings.

• Key Point 2: The course is structured into modules that align with major body systems and medical specialties.

• Example: Learning the term cardiology (study of the heart) involves recognizing the root cardi- and the suffix -ology.

Course Structure and Topics

Modules and Chapters

The course is divided into seven modules, each covering specific chapters and body systems. The structure ensures comprehensive coverage of medical terminology relevant to healthcare professions.

• Module 1: Introduction, Suffixes, Prefixes, Organization of the Body

• Module 2: Integumentary, Skeletal, Muscular Systems

• Module 3: Digestive, Cardiovascular, Respiratory Systems

• Module 4: Blood & Lymphatic, Urinary, Endocrine Systems

• Module 5: Nervous System, Special Senses: Ear and Eye

• Module 6: Female and Male Reproductive Systems

• Module 7: Oncology, Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Mental Health

Additional info: The course aligns with the chapter titles listed for Medical Terminology college courses, ensuring relevance and comprehensive coverage.

Learning Outcomes

Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

Upon successful completion, students will:

• Define, pronounce, and spell medical terms using reference tools.

• Utilize medical terms in context.

• Analyze medical terms for meaning and structure.

• Examine word origin and structure, including prefixes, suffixes, root words, plurals, abbreviations, and symbols.

Assessment and Grading

Graded Categories and Weight

Assessment is based on attendance, assignments, module exams, and a comprehensive final exam (OCCMA).

Category	Number/Type	Weight
Attendance	Weekly (8 weeks)	1%
Assignments & Discussions	Module assignments/discussions	19%
Module Exams	7 exams	60%
OCCMA (Final Exam)	1 comprehensive exam	20%

Grade Scale: A: 90–100 | B: 80–89 | C: 70–79 | D: 60–69 | Not Passing: 0–59

Course Practices and Expectations

Attendance, Integrity, and Technology

• Attendance: Mandatory and tracked weekly; participation in assignments/discussions is required.

• Academic Integrity: Strict policies against dishonesty; violations result in grade penalties and possible removal from the course.

• Technology: Reliable computer, internet, webcam, and microphone are required. Exams are proctored online using Honorlock.

Additional info: Students must use Microsoft Office 365 and Blackboard for course materials and communication.

Required Materials

Textbook and Software

• Textbook: Medical Terminology for Health Care Professionals by Jane Rice, 9th Edition or above (Pearson Education).

• Software: Microsoft Office 365, Google Chrome (for Honorlock), Blackboard.

Weekly Course Outline

Schedule and Due Dates

The course follows a weekly schedule with assignments, exams, and discussion boards. All items open at 12:01AM and close at 11:59PM on the specified dates.

• Module Exams: Timed, open-book exams at the end of each module.

• OCCMA (Final Exam): Comprehensive, closed-book exam covering all chapters.

• Discussion Boards: Required for each module; substantive replies to classmates are necessary for full credit.

Institutional Policies and Support

Resources and Accessibility

• Student Accommodations: Contact the instructor or Office of Student Accommodations for accessibility needs.

• Testing Center: Available for in-person exam proctoring.

• Advising, Bookstore, Financial Aid, Library, Registrar, Student Services: Contact information and links provided in the syllabus.

• Blackboard Support: Available for technical assistance.

Additional info: Diversity, equity, inclusion, and ADA compliance are emphasized throughout the course.