The course covers a range of topics, including the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs, as well as the mechanisms involved in the regulation of various bodily processes.
Throughout the course, students will learn about the various organ systems of the body, including the nervous system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, digestive system, and renal system. The course also covers topics such as metabolism, homeostasis, and the role of hormones in the body.
The course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, or for those who simply want to learn more about how the human body works. The course is delivered through a series of video lectures, interactive quizzes, and assignments, and students can complete the course at their own pace.
By the end of the course, students should have a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of human physiology, as well as an appreciation for the complexity and sophistication of the human body.
Course Content:
Explore the fascinating world of human physiology and learn about the body's organ systems, their functions, and how they maintain health. In this comprehensive course, you will:
- Master key concepts in human physiology and homeostasis.
- Delve into the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, and urinary systems.
- Examine the role of senses, muscles, gastrointestinal, and reproductive systems.
- Apply knowledge to real-life situations and medical conditions.
This course is perfect for students, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in human physiology and biology, building upon a basic understanding of human anatomy. This course is an excellent resource for MCAT preparation or as a refresher for health professionals. As a bonus, enhance your learning with a unique immersive virtual reality (VR) experience, accessible on both VR and desktop platforms, that takes you on an incredible journey inside the human body. This course offers a captivating way to explore and understand complex physiological concepts, as you virtually shrink to navigate through blood vessels and then return to normal size to measure blood pressure. The course comes to life as an educational adventure.
The course Introductory Human Physiology on Coursera, created by Jennifer Carbrey, is divided into 10 weeks, each covering a different aspect of human physiology.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the course:
Week 1:
Welcome and Additional Resources
1 video (Total 2 min), 6 readings
Welcome to Human Physiology 10m
How to Use Discussion Forums 10m
Course Logistics 10m
About Us 10m
FAQ_Including Syllabus for Downloading 10m
Get to Know Your Classmates 10m
Homeostasis and Endocrine System
Welcome to Module 2 of Introductory Human Physiology! We begin our study of the human body with an overview of the basic concepts that underlie the functions of cells and organs within the body and their integration to maintain life. This is an important introduction to how physiologists view the body. We will return to these basic concepts again as we progress through the organs systems and consider how they respond to perturbations incurred in daily functions and in disease.
The things to do this week are to watch the 6 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes for each topic, and to complete two problem sets (homeostasis, transporters & channels, and endocrine concepts). It will be most effective if you follow the sequence of videos. The notes provide a more detailed summary of each topic. We encourage you to find which resource (videos and/or notes) works best for you.We have included a set of problems to be completed as homework exercises. We strongly encourage you to complete these problems sets. They are not graded and are for your personal feedback. It has been our experience that these exercises are helpful in increasing understanding and retention of the newly learned materials.Please use the interactive forum as a means to exchange ideas, to ask questions, to form study groups and interest groups, and to meet your community. We will monitor the forum daily.Thank you for joining us. We are excited about sharing this educational experience with you. Welcome!
6 videos (Total 140 min), 1 reading, 3 quizzes
Homeostasis and Fluid Compartments 22m
Regulation of Homeostasis 27m
Transporters Pumps and Channels 31m
Solute and Water Transport 17m
General Concepts 28m
Assessment and Pathology 13m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: Transporters, Channels, and Homeostasis 30m
Practice Problem Set: Endocrine Concepts 30m
Homeostasis and Endocrine System Exam 30m
Week 2: The Nervous System
We hope you are enjoying the course! Last week's lectures can be challenging because we introduce many concepts that may be new to you. This module will allow you to apply some of the concepts that you learned last week and provide you with more concrete examples. In this module we will begin our tour of the various organ systems with the nervous system.
We start by considering the function of the individual cells (neurons) and then how they interact as an integrative system. The nervous system provides rapid communication throughout the body coordinating the actions of trillions of cells. It responds to internal changes to the body as well as to changes in our external environment. This is a busy week. The things to do this week are to watch the 5 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the Nervous System problem set. We suggest that you read the notes, watch the videos, and answer the in-video questions before you start on the problem sets. The problem sets require you to apply your knowledge from the lectures so it is best to be fairly familiar with the material before tackling them. The problem sets are not graded, and there is no due-date for them.
5 videos (Total 75 min), 2 readings, 2 quizzes
Introduction and Cell Types 7m
Membrane Potentials 21m
Action Potentials 20m
Methods of Communication 13m
Organization 12m
How To Calaculate The Equilibrium Potential 10m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Nervous System 30m
The Nervous System Exam 30m
Week 3: The Senses and the Somatic Nervous System
In this module, we consider two types of cells: one that relays information to the central nervous system (brain) for interpretation and a second set, motor neurons which relay information away from the central nervous system to govern voluntary movement. The input pathway to the brain is mediated by specific cells called senses. The senses convert energy (such as light or heat) into an energy form (electrical potentials) recognized by neurons in the brain. The brain, in turn, interprets this information (as vision or pain) and then sends out a motor response via the motor neurons of the somatic nervous system to effector cells in the body. The motor neurons activate skeletal muscle to control breathing and the movement of the limbs.
The things to do this week are to watch the 5 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the problem set. It will be most effective if you follow the sequence of videos. The notes provide a more detailed summary of each topic. We encourage you to find which resource (videos and/or notes) works best for you and to try the problems sets. The problem sets are not graded. Both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information.
5 videos (Total 90 min), 1 reading, 2 quizzes
Hearing and the Vestibular System 15m
Chemical Senses 7m
Intro and Structure 10m
Control of Movement 26m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: Senses and Nervous System 30m
The Senses and the Somatic Nervous System Exam 30m
Week 4: Muscle
In this module, we consider the effectors of the body that govern voluntary and involuntary movement. These effectors are specialized cells called muscle which are capable of generating force (tension). Muscle cells are classified as one of three types: skeletal, smooth, and cardiac. Although all three types generate tension, each is specialized for a given function. Skeletal muscle governs voluntary movement of the limbs and is critical for expansion of the lung during breathing. Smooth and cardiac muscle are contractile cells found in the walls of blood vessels and the heart, respectively. We will return to the basic principles that govern these cells types when we consider the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
The things to do this week are to watch the 4 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete two problem sets (skeletal muscle and smooth & cardiac muscle). It will be most effective if you follow the sequence of videos. The notes provide a more detailed summary of each topic. We encourage you to find which resource (videos and/or notes) works best for you and to try the problems sets. The problem sets are not graded. Both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information.
4 videos (Total 100 min), 2 readings, 3 quizzes
Tension and Metabolism 30m
Smooth Muscle Structure, Regulation and Pacemakers 21m
Cardiac Muscle Structure, E-C Coupling and Force Generation 21m
Resources 10m
Survey 10m
Practice Problem Set: Skeletal Muscle 30m
Practice Problem Set: Smooth and Cardiac Muscle 30m
Muscle Exam 30m
Week 5: Cardiovascular System
Welcome back! In this module we consider how the circulatory system works to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the specific organs. We start with a discussion of the electrical and mechanical functions of the heart which enable it to generate a pressure gradient. This pressure gradient propels the blood through the blood vessels, in a unidirectional manner. The following session considers the factors that govern delivery of gases and nutrients at the tissue level. The last session considers the entire reflex loop, its control, and its response to daily demands (rest and exercise) and how pathology affects these responses.
This is a busy week! The things to do this week are to watch the 5 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the CV problem set. It will be most effective if you follow the sequence of videos. The notes provide a more detailed summary of each topic. We encourage you to find which resource (videos and/or notes) works best for you and to try the problems sets. The problem sets are not graded. Both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information.
5 videos (Total 144 min), 1 reading, 3 quizzes
Heart As A Pump 25m
Cardiac Performance 16m
Circulatory System 39m
Reflex Control 31m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Cardiovascular System 30m
Cardiovascular System Exam 30m
Week 6: Respiratory System
We hope that you are enjoying the course! This module considers the respiratory system. In these lessons, we explore topics such as how we get air into our lungs, the role of airway resistance in ventilation, the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and tissues, and the regulation of breathing. There are a couple of demonstrations of lung function in the videos!
The things to do this week are to watch the 8 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the Respiratory System problem set. We suggest that you read the notes, watch the videos, and answer the in-video questions before you start on the problem sets, which are not graded. Take a deep breath and have fun with it!
8 videos (Total 145 min), 1 reading, 2 quizzes
Lung Volumes and Compliance 19m
Pressure Changes and Resistance 17m
Pulmonary Function Tests and Alveolar Ventilation 16m
Oxygen Transport 25m
CO2 Transport and V/Q Mismatch 15m
Exercise and Hypoxia 13m
Regulation of Breathing 21m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Respiratory System 30m
Respiratory System Exam 30m
Week 7: The Endocrine System
IIn this module, we return our attention to the endocrine system and its role in the maintenance of homeostasis. In particular we consider the hypothalamus-pituitary axis, which integrates signals from the nervous system and from the blood to regulate most homeostatic functions, including growth, ion balance, fluid balance, response to stress, and energy use. The first lesson gives an overview of the hypothalamus-pituitary axis and its actions in regulating growth of the body. In later lessons we consider how this complex negative feedback loop governs the body’s energy use and its response to stress. Then, later in lesson 3, we turn our attention to the simple reflex loop by which the endocrine pancreas regulates metabolism in both the fed and fasted states and the failures of this system (diabetes mellitus). The hypothalamus-pituitary axis and its control of reproduction in both males and females are considered in the next module (Module 9).
The things to do this week are to watch the 6 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to do the two problem sets (endocrine system and fuel homeostasis). Please note that each module can stand alone, however, it will be most effective if you do the first two videos (H-P-axis) before any of the others. The notes provide a more detailed summary of each topic and again we encourage you to use the resource (videos and/or notes) that works best for you. Please do try the problems sets for self-review. Both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information.
6 videos (Total 125 min), 1 reading, 3 quizzes
Hypothalamus-Anterior Pituitary Axis- GH 23m
Hypothalamus-Posterior Pituitary Axis 9m
Hypothalamus-Pituitary- Adrenal Axis 26m
Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis 26m
Fed State & Insulin 25m
Fasted State and Glucagon 13m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Endocrine System 30m
Practice Problem Set: Fuel Homeostasis 30m
The Endocrine System Exam 30m
Week 8: The Reproductive System
Welcome back! This module continues our discussion of the endocrine system and its control of homeostasis. In this series of videos, we consider how the endocrine system regulates the production of gametes (egg and sperm) in the female and male, respectively, as well as the production of the sex hormones.
The things to do this week are to watch the 4 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the problem set. It will be most effective if you follow the sequence of the lectures on the reproductive system. Again please consult the notes for a more detailed summary of each topic. If you have not tried the problems sets, please do so. They will reinforce your understanding of the newly learned information by applying it. Since these problem sets are delivered in the same electronic format as the exams, by completing them, you will gain confidence in using the electronic test format.
4 videos (Total 56 min), 1 reading, 2 quizzes
Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonad Axis 9m
Sperm and Hormone Production 11m
Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonad Axis 18m
Menstrual Cycle 16m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Reproductive System 30m
The Reproductive System Exam 30m
Week 9: The Gastrointestinal System
Congratulations! You have almost completed this course. In this module, we consider the inner workings of your gut. Most of our discussions deal with the function of specific regions of the gastrointestinal tract where complex foods are processed into solutes and nutrients that can be absorbed into the body for use as fuel. This “processing plant” acts in a unidirectional manner from mouth to anus and requires the coordinated secretions of acid, enzymes, bases, and fluids for its normal function. What is unusual about the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and its accessory organs, salivary glands, liver, and pancreas, is that their coordinated actions occur in a timely manner without conscious input from the brain. Instead the gut integrates its diverse actions by locally produced chemicals (hormones and paracrines) as well as by the coordinated actions of the enteric nervous system, a subdivision of the autonomic nervous system. In the last lesson of this module, we consider normal motility of the gut, as well as perturbations that result in gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and diarrhea.
The things to do this week are to watch the 4 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete the gastrointestinal problem set. For this topic, the most effective approach will be to follow the sequence of videos as we move along the gastrointestinal tract. The notes provide a more detailed summary of the video lectures. Again, please use the resource (videos and/or notes) that works best for you. However, we encourage you to complete the problem sets as both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information. Hope you enjoy the week!
4 videos (Total 97 min), 1 reading, 2 quizzes
General Structure and Function 19m
Regulation of Acid Secretion 20m
Digestion and Absorption 33m
Motility 22m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Gastrointestinal System 30m
The Gastrointestinal System Exam 30m
Week 10: The Urinary System
Welcome to module 11 and the last organ system to be covered in this course! In this module, we turn our attention to the urinary system and specifically to the functions of the kidney, a filter of the blood. The kidney is a complicated organ whose actions integrate with those of the cardiovascular system to maintain blood pressure and with the respiratory system to maintain acid-base balance. As we progress through this module, we consider the mechanisms by which the kidney regulates the water content and the electrolyte content of the body. We focus on the roles of the normal kidney but also consider changes in homeostasis due to either disease or drugs. The last lesson of this module considers the role of the kidney in regulating acid-base balance of the body and its integration with the respiratory system.
The things to do this week are to watch the 6 videos, to answer the in-video questions, to read the notes, and to complete one problem set (urinary system). In this module, the sequence of videos is important. As you proceed through the videos and notes, try to correlate the specific region of the renal tubule with its function. Often this is best achieved by drawing the renal tubule and labeling the specific changes in structure and function. Again, the notes will provide a more detailed summary of the material presented in the videos. Please note that the first two videos correlate with the first set of notes and the third video with the second set of notes. We encourage you to complete the problem set. The problem set is not graded and is for your personal feedback. Both your understanding and retention will increase with application of the new learned information.
6 videos (Total 145 min), 1 reading, 2 quizzes
General Structure and Function 23m
Filtration Rate and Regulation 27m
Reabsorption and Secretion 22m
Regulation of Fluid Balance 33m
General Concepts and Renal Tubule Function 18m
Balance, Disturbances, and Analysis 19m
Resources 10m
Practice Problem Set: The Urinary System 30m
The Urinary System Exam 30m
Reviews:
As a former student of the Introductory Human Physiology course by Jennifer Carbrey on Coursera, I would like to provide a more detailed evaluation of the course.
The course covers a wide range of topics related to human physiology, including the functions of different organ systems, the mechanisms of homeostasis, and the regulation of bodily functions. The course is structured into modules, with each module covering a specific topic. The modules are well-organized and include a variety of materials, including video lectures, readings, interactive animations, and virtual labs. The materials are presented in a clear and easy-to-understand manner, making the course accessible to students with a wide range of backgrounds.
One of the strengths of the course is the use of interactive learning tools. For example, the course includes interactive animations that illustrate physiological processes in a way that is not possible with static images or written explanations alone. The course also includes virtual labs that allow students to explore different physiological processes in a hands-on way. These tools are particularly helpful for visual learners or students who may have difficulty understanding complex concepts through reading alone.
Another strength of the course is the instructor, Jennifer Carbrey. Dr. Carbrey is an excellent instructor who is knowledgeable, engaging, and responsive to student questions. She presents the material in a clear and concise manner and is able to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. She is also very supportive and provides timely feedback on assignments and discussion posts.
In addition to the course materials and instructor, the course also includes online quizzes and assignments that help reinforce the concepts covered in the lectures. These quizzes and assignments are well-designed and provide a good opportunity for students to test their understanding of the material.
Overall, I highly recommend the Introductory Human Physiology course to anyone interested in learning about the human body and how it works. The course is well-structured, the materials are engaging, and the instructor is excellent. Whether you are a student looking to supplement your studies or someone interested in learning for personal enrichment, this course is an excellent choice.
At the time, the course has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over 4,570 ratings.
What you'll learn:
After completing the Introductory Human Physiology course by Jennifer Carbrey on Coursera, students will have developed several skills related to human physiology. Some of these skills include:
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Knowledge of basic human physiology: Students will have a fundamental understanding of the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs in the human body. They will also have knowledge of the various organ systems and the mechanisms involved in regulating bodily processes.
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Analytical skills: Throughout the course, students will have developed analytical skills that enable them to identify and analyze physiological problems and to propose solutions.
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Critical thinking: Students will have developed critical thinking skills by analyzing physiological concepts and theories, and by evaluating the scientific evidence behind them.
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Scientific communication: The course includes several interactive quizzes and assignments that require students to communicate scientific ideas and findings effectively.
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Self-paced learning: The course is self-paced, which means that students can complete the course at their own pace and learn in a way that works best for them. This helps students develop time management and self-discipline skills.
Overall, the Introductory Human Physiology course provides students with a strong foundation in human physiology and related skills that can be applied in various fields, including healthcare, research, and education.
Author:
Jennifer Carbrey is an accomplished educator and researcher who has made significant contributions to the field of physiology. She is currently a professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she teaches human physiology to undergraduate and graduate students. She has also developed and taught several online courses on human physiology, including the "Introductory Human Physiology" course on Coursera.
Dr. Carbrey's research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of water and solute transport in the kidney. Her work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, and she has received several awards and grants for her research.
As an educator, Dr. Carbrey is known for her ability to explain complex physiological concepts in a clear and engaging manner. Her teaching style emphasizes active learning and student-centered approaches that encourage students to take ownership of their learning. She is also committed to using technology to enhance learning and has been recognized for her innovative use of online platforms and educational software.
Overall, Jennifer Carbrey is a highly respected educator and researcher in the field of physiology. Her expertise, combined with her dedication to teaching and student success, makes her a valuable contributor to the field and an asset to the University of Tennessee and the wider scientific community.
Requirements:
The Introductory Human Physiology course by Jennifer Carbrey on Coursera has several requirements for students who wish to enroll in the course. Some of these requirements include:
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Prerequisites: Students should have a basic understanding of biology, including concepts related to cell biology and anatomy. This includes knowledge of the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.
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English language proficiency: The course is delivered in English, so students should have strong reading, writing, and communication skills in English.
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Access to technology: Students will need access to a computer or mobile device with a reliable internet connection to access the course materials, complete quizzes and assignments, and participate in online discussions.
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Time commitment: The course is self-paced, but students should be prepared to spend a minimum of 3-4 hours per week on coursework. It is recommended that students set aside dedicated time each week to work on the course.
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Learning attitude: Students should be willing to engage with the course materials actively, ask questions, and participate in online discussions. They should also be willing to seek help when needed and be receptive to feedback from the instructor and peers.
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Prerequisite knowledge: Students should have a basic understanding of chemistry, including knowledge of chemical bonds, acids and bases, and chemical reactions.
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Textbook: While not required, it is recommended that students have access to a human physiology textbook to supplement the course materials and readings.
Overall, the Introductory Human Physiology course requires students to have a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, English language proficiency, access to technology, and a willingness to engage actively with the course materials and participate in online discussions. By meeting these requirements, students will be well-equipped to succeed in the course and gain a solid understanding of human physiology.
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