Introduction to Human Biology

An integrated exploration of the fundamentals of biology. The course covers introductory topics such as the nature of life, biological chemistry, cell biology and metabolism, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, with emphasis on the nervous system.  

This course is destined to Psychology majors only. Students that take this course cannot take the course BI 1017 Human Biology: Body Anatomy and Current Issues.  

 

RATIONALE:

A fundamental biology module with practical sessions in metabolism, histology and anatomy, tailored to the needs of psychology students. The course provides a suitable background in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics and human biology, allowing psychology students to successfully advance to the Biological Psychology course. 

 

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate adequate knowledge of core biological concepts and principles.  

2. Understand the nature of life, with emphasis on biological chemistry, cell biology, genetics, enzymatic function and cell metabolism.

3. Identify human tissues and organs.

4. Distinguish disorders that affect human behaviour.  

5. Develop necessary analytical skills by practicing inquiry in the laboratory, addressing scientific questions and applying the appropriate methodology. 

 

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:  

In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:

 Class lectures, interactive learning (class discussions, group work), video presentations, and practical problems solved in class.

 Use of the online platform Connect | McGraw Hill  

 Exercises and primary source documents are assigned as homework, the solutions of which are reviewed in class.

 Laboratory work (some laboratory reports and drawings may be required).

 Office hours: students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their instructor, where they can ask questions, see their exam paper, and/or go over lecture/lab material.  

 Use of a blackboard site, where instructors post lecture notes, assignment instructions, timely announcements, as well as additional resources.  

 

INDICATIVE CONTENT:

1. The molecules of cells

2. Cell structure and function

3. Membrane structure and function  

4. Metabolism: energy and enzymes  

5. Human organization    

6. Overview of human organ systems and related disorders    

7. The nervous system and related disorders    

8. Senses    

9. The endocrine system and related disorders    

10. Development and aging

11. Patterns of gene inheritance

12. Chromosomal basis of inheritance

13. DNA structure and gene expression

INDICATIVE CONTENT (LAB):    

1. Laboratory Safety. Rules and Regulations. Introduction to microscopy

2. Use of light microscopes – Stereoscopes - Electron Micrographs

3. Analysis of cell biology slides

4. Animal Tissues

5. Metabolism: Enzymology

6. Metabolism: Respiration  

7. External Anatomy and Neck Region (Anatomy table and human models)

8. Digestive System (Anatomy table and human models)

9. Circulatory System (Anatomy table and human models)  

10. Respiratory System (Anatomy table and human models)

11. Urogenital Systems (Anatomy table and human models)  

12. Senses and Nervous System (Anatomy table and human models)