Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module aims to provide an introduction to mammalian physiology, covering the structure and function of the major systems of the body and the control mechanisms involved in their regulation (cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, blood, nervous and gastrointestinal systems). The integration of different systems in the maintenance of a constant internal environment within the body (homeostasis) will be emphasised.

Outline Of Syllabus

The lectures and seminars cover the following topics:

1. Homeostasis: maintenance of constant internal environment; autonomic nervous system.
Blood: constituents of blood; blood groups; blood clotting.

2. Cardiovascular system: organisation and function of cardiovascular system; electrical conduction in the heart; neural and hormonal influences on the cardiovascular system; blood pressure.

3. Respiratory system: process of respiration/ventilation; factors that influence the work of breathing; gas exchange in the lung; gas transport in blood; control of ventilation.

4. Nervous system: sensation of touch, pressure and vibration; motor control; structure of the ear; how sound is represented in the brain; how an image is formed in the eye; how visual information is processed.

5. Renal system: structure and function of the kidney and nephron; mechanisms of control of reabsorption; hormonal control of water and sodium content of the body.

6. Gastrointestinal system: saliva and gastric secretions; pancreatic secretions; the gall bladder; digestion of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

7. Exercise and Environmental changes: how the cardiovascular and respiratory systems adapt to meet the demands of exercise and unusual environments.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

1. Identify and relate the structures and functions of major organs, tissues and systems.

2. Recognise the role of the autonomic nervous system in controlling cardiovascular, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.

3. Link the main mechanisms involved in cardiac function and regulation of blood pressure.

4. Define the mechanisms of oxygen delivery to and carbon dioxide removal from tissues.

5. Define the main mechanisms involved in ventilation and respiratory control.

6. Recognise the essential role of blood.

7. Illustrate how receptors in the skin, ear and eye transduce stimuli into neural activity and how this information is processed in the brain, e.g. movement, hearing, vision.

8. Recognise the role of the renal system in regulation of body water and sodium content.

9. Compare the mechanisms of digestion and absorption of starch, protein and fat.

10. Describe physiological adaptions to exercise and changes to the environment, e.g. altitude.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

1. Independently locate information about Physiology via the library, Canvas and the internet, to support and reinforce material taught in lectures (information literacy).

2. Work with peers in small groups to solve Physiology related problems in seminars (problem solving & collaboration).

3. Effectively communicate knowledge of Physiology, obtained from lectures and private study, to peers and staff during seminars (oral and interpersonal communication skills).

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

1. Lectures will define the scope of the course and communicate basic knowledge as a basis for further study.

2. Seminars will encourage students to develop their understanding of the subject and interpersonal communication skills. They provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and exchange ideas. Skills practiced include critical thinking, numeracy, communication & team working.

3. Private study is used for self-directed learning and includes: reading lecture notes and texts; preparation for seminars; using learning resources on the Web. Skills practiced include critical thinking, active learning, numeracy, planning and organisation and independence.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The end of module examination assesses knowledge and understanding of the course material.

The formative assessment will help students assess their knowledge and understanding of course material as well as familiarise students with the end of module examination.

FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

General Notes

Original Handbook text: