This course offers a fast, fun and enjoyable way to learn the basics of human anatomy and physiology. It provides a strong foundation for students interested in careers in kinesiology, anatomy and physiology, physical therapy and sports medicine
An overview of basic body systems, including structure and function of major organ systems, bone and muscle groups, and interactions between organ systems. Each class will have a Spotlight on Medicine, looking at substances and medicines used to treat different ailments. A field trip to a local hospital provides access to people working medical careers. On the final day students will give ‘capstone’ presentations about a biology or medical topic of their choice. Students will be able to choose their topics, and work together during class time to prepare a presentation to share.
Learning Objectives
> Explore human organ systems and system components, their functions and common dysfunctions
> Visit a hospital and interview people working in medical fields
> Compare common medicines and their effects on human health
> Engage in meaningful communication with others about issues associated with human health and disease.
> Gain awareness and familiarity with the human body, health and medicine — for life!
Hands-On Learning
Common medicines and their effects on the human body will be discussed using the Learn by Doing philosophy. Each class will have a Spotlight on Medicine, looking at various commonly used substances and medicines. The capstone project on a biomedical topic will be done by students in pairs or groups of three and presented on the final day. A capstone outline will be provided; students choose their topics, and work together during class time, to prepare a PowerPoint presentation on their biology or medical topic.
Career Exploration
Halfway through the workshop, students will go on an excursion to Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center to provide meaning and relevance to the course. As the largest hospital in San Luis Obispo County, Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center strives to produce optimal outcomes and exceptional patient experiences to the community it serves. Its distinct, high-level services include neurosurgery, orthopedics, obstetrics, perinatology (high-risk pregnancy), neonatology (high-risk newborn care), pediatrics and trauma.
Instructor
Michele Roest, MS
Michele Roest is a lecturer in the Biological Sciences Department at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. Michele has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in biological sciences. She has been a curriculum developer for K-12 and college-level biology instructor for more than twenty years. Michele is passionate about biology and enjoys sharing her knowledge with others.
This program is run in partnership with Cal Poly Extended Education. Instructors are Cal Poly faculty and provide access to the same facilities that Cal Poly students enjoy.
