Module BIOL2521: APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY

Department: Biosciences

BIOL2521: APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• To study the homeostasis of human physiological control systems at an intermediate level.
• To consider non-pathological “altered states“ of human physiology - resulting from endogenous and exogenous stimuli - which are a challenge to homeostasis.
• To explore the bases of disease states resulting from breakdown in homeostasis.

Content

• Renal physiology.
• Endocrinology.
• Reproductive physiology.
• The liver and its functional roles.
• Neurophysiology.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of the functioning major human physiological processes at an intermediate level.
• Knowledge of the effects of stresses and stimuli on the normal functions of human physiology.
• Knowledge of the effects of disease on normal human physiology, and how pathophysiologies develop.
• Knowledge of the the bases of pharmacological interventions to correct abnormal physiologies.

• Experimental techniques used to investigate human physiology in "normal" individuals.
• Analysis of data from physiological experiments, using statistical methods.

• Numeracy, in data analysis, and calculations involved in data handling.
• Communication skills, using the written word and graphics, involved in human physiology practical reports.
• Team work, working in small groups in human physiology practical classes.
• Self-motivation, in self-guided learning.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures deliver subject-specific knowledge.
• Workshops reinforce subject-specific knowledge and understanding gained from lectures and the development of key and subject-specific skills.
• Practical classes allow students to utilise subject-specific knowledge gained from lectures, and support the development of key and subject-specific skills.
• Tutorials give enhancement of the student learning experience, supporting attainment of all learning outcomes.
• Self-guided learning contributes to subject-specific knowledge and self-motivation.
• Practical reports are based on subject-specific knowledge and demonstrate subject-specific skills in carrying out experimental work and data analysis, as well as key skills.
• Problem Exercises (Data Handling) demonstrate subject-specific skills in data handling and key skills in numeracy.
• Unseen examinations demonstrate achievement of the appropriate level of subject-specific knowledge with an emphasis on understanding and communication (essay and problem-based questions) or recall of factual knowledge (multiple choice or short answer question tests).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

Regular formative assessments including data analysis, interpretation and problem solving throughout the module; 4 assessments over 2 terms.