Aims

This module aims to provide a foundation in human physiology with reference to sport and exercise.

There is an emphasis on how human organs and tissues function and the module allows the student to study and understand key concepts regarding normal human physiology through an integrated systems approach.

Outline Of Syllabus

Lectures and laboratory practical classes will cover:

•       Homeostasis
•       Respiratory system: process of respiration / ventilation; factors that influence the work of breathing; gas exchange in the lung; gas transport in the blood; control of ventilation
•       Blood: constituents; blood groups; blood clotting; white blood cell role in immune system
•       Cardiovascular system: organisation and function; electrical conduction in the heart; neural and hormonal influences on the cardiovascular system; blood pressure
•       Exercise: how the cardiovascular and respiratory activities are altered to reflect the demands of exercise
•       Immune system: major functions of the immune system, including innate and acquired immunity
•       Neuromuscular system: organisation and function; neural control of movement; skeletal muscle structure and physiology
•       Kidney: structure and function of the nephron; mechanisms of control of re-absorption; hormonal control of water and sodium content of the body
•       Gut: saliva and gastric secretions; pancreatic secretions; digestion of fats, carbohydrates and proteins
•       Endocrine System: endocrine glands; cell communication; actions of key hormones
•       Liver: structure and function; role in metabolism; role in exercise performance

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures define the scope of the course and communicate basic knowledge as the basis for further study. Non-synchronous and synchronous learning materials are developed via an in-classroom flipped learning approach. Practicals provide students with practical skills and the opportunity to work with peers. They also frame underpinning knowledge within a relevant context enabling the student to develop their understanding of the subject and its relevance. The workshops and small group sessions will provide students with an opportunity to discuss their understanding of lecture content and formative teaching activities related to developing skills of lab report writing, and data analysis and presentation. Formative teaching activities will be provided throughout the module. These include the use of MCQ, short-answer and problem- solving questions within lecture materials and on-line practice exams. Independent study is used for self-directed learning and includes:- reading lecture notes & texts, preparation for practical classes; using learning resources on the Web. Skills practiced include critical thinking, active learning, numeracy, planning & organisation and independence.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exam will test the students' factual knowledge and understanding of facts and ideas from material covered throughout the module.
     
The practical lab report will be constructed from the practical classes. This has been designed to assess students’ ability to independently locate information about Human Physiology, demonstrate their knowledge of Human Physiology through their writing and present data effectively.

The professional skills assessment will examine students' ability to apply practical skills to monitor and evaluate human physiological responses to exercise and work with peers in small groups to solve human physiology problems.

Students studying on BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences must submit all module assessment components and obtain an overall mark of 40 or above to pass the module – see the programme regulations and handbook for further details.