Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Comparative Anatomy and Physiology
SCQF level: 07:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: BMS07107
Module leader: David Smith
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

In this module you will investigate aspects of anatomy and physiology from the evolutionary as well as functional perspectives. Following an initial survey of the overall diversity of animals you will focus on evolutionary trajectories of form, by surveying 5 key taxonomic classes. Functional physiology will also be investigated by you in an evolutionary way by looking at how physiological changes allow adaptation to novel evolutionary niches. You will also be given the opportunity to work in a laboratory or field environment to develop professional and safe working practices. You will also participate in workshops to develop your academic skills.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Relate the evolutionary changes which result in specialised body systems and recognize the differences in anatomical form between diverse groups of animals.

LO2: Identify animals to a broad taxonomic group and relate how these groupings are reflected in aspects of structure and function.

LO3: Collect and present quantitative data in a written laboratory report.

LO4: Work collaboratively with peers to investigate simple anatomical relationships in humans.

LO5: Demonstrate academic integrity and professional attributes through the application of good academic and laboratory/fieldwork practice.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: David Smith
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Seminar 24 Academic skills workshops, that will provide you with the opportunity to develop skills in scientific writing, data analysis and referencing.
Online Demonstration 142 Each week reading materials and resources will be issued on Moodle (these will also be shared via the Module leganto list at the beginning of the module should you wish more time to engage with the materials). You are expected to read and reflect on the essential reading material which can be discussed during the seminar sessions. Resources to help you to read and take productive study notes created by the University's Academic Skills team can be accessed on the module Moodle page.
Face To Face Lecture 22 Lectures will follow 6 functional anatomic themes that will align with the evolutionary topics discussed in the Life on Earth module. Lectures will be recorded and will be available immediately after classes for you. The lecture recording will include subtitles/close-captioning.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 12 Laboratory based group work that will allow you to explore anatomical relationships and physiological function.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Laboratory report 60 3~4 Week 8 , WORDS= 1500 words Laboratory report summarizing collaborative methodology and data analysis. Introduction and discussion sections of the report authored individually.
Class Test 20 1~2 Week 13 HOURS= 1 hour Open book, 40 questions on-line multi-choice class test.
Reflective Log 20 5 Week 11 , WORDS= 1000 words The reflective log comprises 5 submissions submitted progressively in week 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11, Each submission is a 200 word reflective journal entry submitted via Moodle written in the first person. In each submission you will critically capture your experiences of managing your own academic engagement and professional conduct as you progress through the first trimester of your programme of study. Each submission should focus on the theme covered in the fortnightly longitudinal induction sessions that are embedded in the LTA of the module. These themes include time management, literature search tools, academic integrity, safe conduct in laboratory and field environments and developing professional attributes.
Component 1 subtotal: 60
Component 2 subtotal: 40
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
BMS07107 Comparative Anatomy & Physiology
 

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