Introduction to Functional Microanatomy

Description

This module will develop your core anatomical knowledge at a cellular level. During hands-on sessions you will discover the techniques used in histology, including tissue preparation and staining. Throughout your study of human and animal tissues, you will explore how structure relates to function. You will work with peers in collaborative laboratory stations equipped with light microscopes and virtual screens. Support from expert tutors will ensure the development of essential skills for a range of future careers. Assessment will reflect the hands-on teaching approach with a combination of practical and written examinations. Throughout the module, there will be regular opportunities for individual and peer formative assessment with in-depth feedback. This module aims to ensure students' knowledge goes beyond that of gross anatomy, allowing an exploration of cellular anatomy. The introduction to techniques used in histology provides an additional practical element to the course and ensures students have an ability to apply their knowledge to the laboratory setting. This module will complement additional semester 1 learning. Demonstrate the practical skills required to correctly set up and use a light microscope.: 2 Illustrate and label characteristic features that are visible at low- and high-power magnifications and can be used to accurately distinguish various tissues.: 1,2 Outline the functional microanatomy of the cardiovascular, respiratory, lymphatic, nervous, gastrointestinal, exocrine, endocrine, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal systems.: 1 Identify and describe structural adaptations that enable cellular function.: 1 Determine how tissue can be affected by pathology and predict how this will affect the structure-function relationships of respective tissues.: 1 1: Exam weighted 60% Written Exam Students will sit a 1 hour (50-mark) mixed single-best answer and extended-match question examination. Throughout the module, students will be provided with access to a significant number of formative interactive quizzes. These will take the form of both in-session quizzes with peer collaboration and anonymous online quizzes with immediate feedback. Feedback will be provided and students will have the opportunity to discuss this with staff. 2: Objective Structured Skills & Clinical Examination weighted 40% Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) A 15-minute practical examination whereby students will be expected to correctly setup the light microscope. Students will then be presented with a range of prepared histological slides and be expected to discuss each tissue at both low and high power magnification, discussing key structures and their function as they progress. Each student will be provided with the same tissues. Students will have multiple opportunities within sessions to practice for the assessment and will also formally sit a formative assessment as preparation. Students will be given access to the marking rubric in advance of the assessment. Feedback will be provided and students will have the opportunity to discuss this with staff. The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/ Last Updated: 31 May 2026