Module overview
This module introduces students to the basic principles and concepts of physiology and how these principles operate in mammalian systems.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe the autonomic nervous system and its role in co-ordinating behaviours.
- Describe how optimal blood flow distribution around the body is ensured by a combination of cardiac function and peripheral blood flow regulatory mechanisms.
- Describe the control, structure and function of skeletal muscle and smooth muscle.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian kidney.
- Explain how appropriate amounts of oxygen are delivered to the tissues using haemoglobin and how carbon dioxide is transported to the lungs to be excreted.
- Describe the structure of a typical biological membrane and explain the ways in which polar and non-polar substances cross this barrier.
- Draw annotated diagrams of cells and organelles, neurones and synapses
- Explain and describe evidence for the ionic bases of the resting potential, action potential and excitatory synaptic potential. Calculate equilibrium and membrane potentials using the Nernst and Goldman equations.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian cardiovascular system.
- Explain homeostatic processes with reference to cellular physiology
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian respiratory system
- Describe the principles of digestion and nutrient absorption
Syllabus
- Physiological Principles and Cellular Physiology
- Neurophysiology/Electrophysiology - Nerve, Muscle, Synapse
- Skeletal and Smooth Muscle
- Cardiovascular
- Respiratory
- Digestion
- Kidney
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, laboratory practicals and independent study
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Independent Study | 114 |
Practical classes and workshops | 12 |
Lecture | 24 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Silverthorn, Dee Unglaub (2007). Human physiology : an integrated approach. Pearsons.
Guyton & Hall. Textbook of Medical Physiology. Elsevier.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Examination: comprising one 2-hour computer-based exam containing approximately 25 multiple choice or extended matching items questions.
Students will submit a write-up after every Laboratory Practical session. The write-ups are marked and returned to the students with feedback. Three of the four submitted works will be counted as part of the continual assessment.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Laboratory practicals | 30% |
Written exam | 70% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Written exam | 70% |
Laboratory practicals | 30% |