C-ID Descriptor
Human Physiology with Lab

None

1. Eligible for college-level English (C-ID ENGL 100).
2. Eligible for college-level math (C-ID MATH 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 151 OR any other course with Intermediate Algebra as a prerequisite)
3. Non-majors general biology course and Biology 110 and college-level chemistry.

Must include, but are not limited to:

1. The chemistry of life
2. Homeostasis and feedback systems
3. Cell membrane, and cell-cell communication
4. Major body control systems
5. Functions of the integumentary system
6. Role of bone tissue in homeostasis
7. Skeletal muscle structure and function
8. Membrane potential and action potentials
9. Nervous system and integration
10. Sense organ function
11. Heart and cardiac cycle
12. Cardiovascular system function and regulation
13. Lymphatic system functions and immunity
14. Respiratory system function and regulation
15. Urinary system function and regulation
16. Water, electrolyte and acid-base balance
17. Digestion and nutrition
18. Metabolism
19. Thermoregulation
20. Endocrine functions and regulation
21. Reproductive functions and regulation
22. Clinical applications

This course must include a greater than 80% hands-on learning supporting the course outcomes.  Laboratory content must be considered when matching courses to this descriptor. Typical lab activities would involve investigation or activities related to  human respiration, cardiac function, blood pressure, acid-base balance, urinary output, sensory reflexes and sensory systems or similar activities that illustrate the principles of human body function and homeostasis. Lab experimentation should involve the scientific method.

At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Describe and distinguish various roles of major classes of biomolecules in living cells.
2. Describe key functional features of different types of human cells and how they communicate.
3. Identify key functions of major organ systems and the physiological mechanisms underlying their operation.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of how organ systems of the body are integrated and regulated.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of how homeostasis is maintained in the body.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of metabolic and physiological disorders of the major organ systems.
7. Analyze experimental data to demonstrate physiological principles.
8. Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method, experimental design, and the philosophy of science. Apply the scientific method and philosophy of science by designing components of and carrying out physiological experiments.

Objective and subjective examinations and lab reports.

Practical examinations, case studies, and clinical applications may be included.

Current (within 5 years) college level Physiology text such as Vander, Silverthorn, Fox, and current laboratory manual or lab manual developed on site.

Support materials such as BioPac or data acquisition systems, and PhysioEx or similar interactive computer programs are appropriate for the course.