1st & 2nd Semester
1104 Hours
The course is an integration of the disciplines of Human Anatomy, Physiology and Biophysics, Embryology, and Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Human Nutrition, which are essential in understanding the normal biological functioning of the human body. It is important that students of medicine gain an insight into the mechanisms of how the body operates at various levels of organization, that is, from molecular to cellular to organ systems to body as a whole; as well as how various processes going on in the body are coordinated and controlled.
There are 10 divisions in this course, namely: (1) Molecular Cell Biology; (2) Organization of the Human Body & Development; (3) Derma-Musculoskeletal System; (4) Respiratory System; (5) Renal, Body Fluids and Electrolytes; (6) Gastrointestinal System and Nutrition; (7) Neuroscience; (8) Hematology and Immunology; (9) Cardiovascular System; and (10) Endocrinology & Reproductive System.
In Molecular Cell Biology, courses of study include cells and its activities, membrane, chemistry of bio/macromolecules, chemistry and metabolism of nucleotides, molecular genetics, and oncogenes and carcinogenesis. Surface anatomy, basic tissues and concepts of biological control are studied in the unit on Organization of the Human Body and Development. The anatomy, histology and physiology of the different organ systems are integrated and studied in their respective unit system. In Hematology, aside from the generalities of the blood, blood cells, blood groups and hemostasis, histology and physiology of the immune organs are also discussed. Nutrition, metabolic functions of liver on bilirubin, and xenobiotics, biosynthesis of non-essential amino acids and fatty liver are included in the GIT unit; and acid base balance and metabolism of ammonia are included in the Renal unit. Embryology is studied with reproductive system. Energy, carbohydrate, part of lipid and other amino acid metabolisms are discussed in the respiratory unit while lipid metabolism on cholesterol and lipoproteins is part of the CVS unit.
Each division lasts from 2-5 weeks and learning methodology involves small group tutorials, interactive correlate sessions, group reports and standardized laboratory exercises. In general, the students meet for small group tutorials with the faculty facilitator every morning for three hours from Monday to Friday. Afternoon activities may include laboratory exercises, independent learning activities and small group discussions.
Students’ academic performance is evaluated based on written examinations, practical laboratory examinations, oral examinations and proficiency rating given by the faculty facilitator.
Thirty-two hours per week
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