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Welcome to NS 220
Physiology concerns how bodies
work; we will be focusing on the human body, with some references
to other animals. The function of other mammals is very like
our own, but other animals such as invertebrates often have
solved the problems of life in very different ways. The text,
by Silverthorn, is based on humans.
The course is set up to
cover the major body systems systematically: nerves, circulation,
respiration, hormones, digestion, etc. In addition to text
readings, there will be in-class work in groups as well as
lecture-discussions. Problem sets are intended to help you
pick out and remember the major concepts, and to integrate
quantitative skills and concepts. They are due every week
and must be done on time to benefit your learning. Lab work
will focus on two main projects, carried out in small groups,
that will use different kinds of instrumentation to study
nerve-muscle function and cardio-respiratory function.
Because the material is complex
and the class is starting with a variety of backgrounds, it
is vital that you commit to reading the text before each lecture.
You should expect to spend at least 8-10 hours per week, on
average, in homework: reading, writing lab reports, doing
problems sets. You will be evaluated on the basis of all aspects
of work: preparation and participation, lab work, contributions
to collaborative groups in class and lab, worksheets, and
lab write-ups and presentations.
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