Course Syllabus
Course: BIOL 2650
Division: Natural Science and Math
Department: Biology
Title: Pathophysiology
Semester Approved: Fall 2023
Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2028
End Semester: Summer 2029
Catalog Description: The study of pathophysiology is the study of the dynamic changes in cell and organ function that occur in injury and disease. This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of pathophysiology. The focus of this course will be the abnormal functioning of diseased organs as well as gross and microscopic characteristics of diseased tissue. Epidemiology and clinical manifestations are integrated throughout the course. Students will briefly explore normal cell, organ and organ system function and use this as a basis to understand how injury and disease alter normal physiology. Prerequisites: BIOL 2320, BIOL 2420, CHEM 1110.
Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 4; Lecture: 4; Lab: 0
Prerequisites: BIOL 2320, BIOL 2420, CHEM 1110. Otherwise, instructor approval is required.
Justification: Biology 2650 will prepare students in the allied health care fields to understand the dynamic changes in physiology that accompany injury and disease. Pathophysiology is a prerequisite for many programs at various state colleges and universities. BIO 2650 (Pathophysiology) will be similar to the courses offered by other Utah colleges and universities: University of Utah, NURS 2270; Southern Utah State University, BIO 2170; Weber State University, HTHSCI 2230; Westminster, NURS 280.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Knowledge of Normal PhysiologyStudents should demonstrate a deep understanding of normal human physiology, including the functions of various organ systems and how homeostasis is maintained. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Understanding of Disease ProcessesStudents should be able to explain the mechanisms underlying various disease processes including cellular and molecular changes, inflammation, and resolution. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Identification of Risk FactorsStudents should be able to identify and describe the risk factors associated with different diseases and conditions, such as genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Clinical ManifestationsStudents should be able to recognize and describe the clinical manifestations of different diseases. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Pathophysiological MechanismsStudents should be able to explain the pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to specific disease symptoms and outcomes. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Critical ThinkingStudents should develop critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate complex clinical scenarios and make appropriate connections between pathophysiological concepts and patient care. Students will be assessed through homework, exams, quizzes, and case studies.
Content:
Course content will be covered through textbook reading assignments, handouts, lectures, class discussions, and special project(s). Students will be assessed through tests, quizzes, written assignments, projects, and class participation. The course will initially focus on a core of foundation material and pathophysiological processes that generally apply to cells, tissues, organs, and systems of the body. The remaining lectures will systematically explore the patterns of disease in the body's major organ systems. As each new organ system is encountered, lectures will begin by briefly reviewing normal anatomy and physiology necessary to understand the following discussion of the pathophysiology of that system. A person's culture, human identity, socioeconomic status, etc., all play a part in holistic care and susceptibility to disease. Care will be taken to discuss these topics sensitively while introducing the students to the complexities of working with people outside the classroom.
Key Performance Indicators:
Students will be evaluated using the following metrics:
chapter tests 40 to 60%
final exam 20 to 30%
Quizzes 10 to 20%
Homework/case studies 10 to 20%
Representative Text and/or Supplies:
Pathophysiology: Introductory Concepts and Clinical Perspectives Second Editionby Theresa Capriotti DO MSN CRNP RN
Pedagogy Statement:
Effective teaching in pathophysiology involves disseminating knowledge and cultivating critical thinking, empathy, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. The course will be taught using the following design principles:Inclusive Curriculum Design: the curriculum will reflect our students' diverse experiences and perspectives, including course materials, examples, and case studies representative of various demographics, cultures, and healthcare experiences. Accessible Learning Materials: all learning materials will be accessible to students with different abilities. Varied Teaching Strategies: every student has unique learning abilities. Various teaching strategies will be employed: lectures, small group discussions, case-based learning, and multimedia presentations. Active Learning: students will be encouraged to participate in class discussions, ask questions, and engage in problem-solving activities. Cultural competence: an essential piece of healthcare education. An environment where students can openly discuss cultural aspects of healthcare and disease will be fostered, ensuring that they are prepared to provide care sensitive to cultural differences.
Instructional Mediums:
Lecture
Online
Hybrid
Maximum Class Size: 24
Optimum Class Size: 15
