Section: Home

Units

QUT Course Structure
Human Anatomy

Unit code: LSB255
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs

A detailed understanding of human anatomy is fundamental to the knowledge base of the medically orientated biological scientist. This unit introduces you to both theoretical and practical aspects of gross, systemic and microscopic anatomy of the human body with emphasis on the microscopic anatomy. The unit builds upon knowledge gained in previous units which introduced you to basic principles of cell structure and function. Knowledge gained in this unit provides a basis for more advanced studies in cellular pathology, histochemistry and cytology.


Availability
Semester Available
2013 Semester 2 Yes

Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

A detailed understanding of human anatomy is fundamental to the knowledge base of the medically orientated biological scientist. This unit introduces you to both theoretical and practical aspects of gross, systemic and microscopic anatomy of the human body with emphasis on the microscopic anatomy. The unit builds upon knowledge gained in previous units which introduced you to basic principles of cell structure and function. Knowledge gained in this unit provides a basis for more advanced studies in cellular pathology, histochemistry and cytology.

Aims

The aims of this unit are to:
Provide you with a clear understanding of anatomical terminology used by the medically orientated scientist.
Introduce you to basic techniques for examining the cellular structure of the human body.
Review the structure of the normal human body at the level of the cell, tissue, organ and organ system using a range of laboratory-based and self-directed online/digital learning resources.
Develop your understanding of how the organisation of the human body at the cellular level influences the structural and functional characteristics of tissues, organs and organ systems.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should be able to:

1. Describe and interpret the structure, location and relationships of cells, tissues and organs of the human body through the application of accurate anatomical terminology.

2. Critically evaluate and reflect upon anatomical case problems then communicate your understanding through appropriate generic and analytical writing skills.

3. Demonstrate proficiency in relevant practical skills in anatomical sciences, including the application of light microscopy to the analysis of organ histology.

4. Demonstrate ethical knowledge and behaviours required in the workplace and QUT with respect to safe laboratory practise and the use of anatomical specimens.

Content

Structural and Functional Organisation of the Human Body

Introduction to the basic concepts of human anatomy.
Overview of the structural organisation of the human body including directional terms, planes and sections, body cavities, quadrants and regions.

The Cell
Overview of different cell types in the human body.
Introduction to the basic structure of cell membranes, organelles and inclusions.

Tissues
Overview of the four major tissue types.
Morphology and classification of epithelial, connective, muscle and nervous tissues and general functions.

Bones and Skeletal Tissues
Overview of the gross anatomy of the axial and appendicular skeleton.
Structural and functional characteristics of spongy and compact bone and the major cartilage types found in the adult skeleton.
Introduction to the major joint types and the basic forms of human movement they facilitate.

Muscles and Muscle Tissue
Introduction to skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle.
Major skeletal muscles.

Nervous System
Overview of the structural and functional divisions of the nervous system.
Structural and functional characteristics of neurones and neuroglia.
Gross and microscopic anatomy of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system structures.
The structure and function of general receptors, the visual system and other special sensory receptors.

Cardiovascular System
Gross and microscopic anatomy of the heart and associated linings.
Overview of the structure and distribution of major vessels of the systemic, pulmonary and coronary circulation.
Histology of arteries, veins and capillaries.

Respiratory System
Gross and microscopic anatomy of conducting and respiratory zone structures and the pleural membranes.

Digestive System
Introduction to the gross anatomy and basic function of the gastrointestinal tract and accessory organs.
Structure and location of the peritoneum.
Histology of the accessory organs and the four main layers of the gastrointestinal tract.

Renal System
Overview of the gross and microscopic anatomy of the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra.
Anatomy of the nephron.

Blood cells and the Lymphatic System
Composition and physical characteristics of blood.
Histology of erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets.
Gross and microscopic anatomy of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes and lymphoid organs.

Integumentary System
Overview of the gross anatomy of skin.
Histology of the dermis and epidermis.
Structural features of skin appendages.

Endocrine System
Overview of the basic structural organisation of the endocrine system.
Structural relationships between the hypothalamus and pituitary.
Gross anatomy and histology of the major endocrine glands.

Reproductive System
Gross and microscopic anatomy of the male and female gonads and accessory structures.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

The subject matter will be presented by the teaching staff as lectures (2 hours/week) with reinforcement of the material taking place in the form of laboratory sessions (2 hours/week). Laboratory sessions will include the examination of anatomical models, histological preparations and, where available, specimens of preserved human organs or animal equivalents.

Assessment

All assessment contributes to your grade.Feedback will be provided throughout the semester on a weekly basis.

Assessment name: Quiz/Test
Description: Short answer theory and practical mini-worksheet, formative and summative.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Group with Individual Component
Due date: Weekly

Assessment name: Laboratory/Practical
Description: Practical assessment consisting of short answer practical worksheets containing examination-style questions, formative and summative.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, and 4
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 12

Assessment name: Examination (written)
Description: Theory examination.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 4
Weight: 55%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Progressve & End Sem

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Texts:

1. Saladin, Anatomy & Physiology: The unity of form and function, 4th edition.

top
Risk assessment statement

This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You will be provided with the latest edition of a comprehensive safety booklet pertinent to life sciences laboratories and specifically to this unit, and you will be required to adhere to the safety procedures detailed in it. You are referred to the university's health and safety web site http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/index.jsp for further information.

If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 06-Nov-2012