Systems Physiology: Exploring Human Anatomy Through Dissection
During their Systems Physiology unit, Level 3 Access to HE students in Healthcare recently completed a structured dissection exploring the cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive systems. Working in groups, they used microscopes to examine biological specimens and identify key anatomical structures.
Cardiovascular System
Starting with cardiac anatomy, the heart was examined in detail during the cardiovascular section. Chambers, major blood vessels, and valves were identified, with attention given to how blood flow is regulated.
Specimens allowed comparison of oxygenated and deoxygenated circulation within the heart. As understanding developed, the role of cardiac structure in maintaining efficient circulation became clearer.
Respiratory System
Focus then shifted to the respiratory system and its branching airway network, where students dissected lungs. Observation of bronchi highlighted how increasing surface area supports efficient airflow throughout.
At a microscopic level, the structure of alveoli was examined to understand how oxygen and carbon dioxide diffuse across membranes during gas exchange. Analysing these processes reinforced how they directly underpin whole-system respiratory function.
Digestive System
As part of the wider unit, the digestive system was explored through anatomical study. Students identified key organs and examined how mechanical and chemical digestion break down food into absorbable nutrients.
Nutrients were linked to energy production and metabolism throughout the body. Mapping these relationships showed how the digestive system supplies nutrients carried by the cardiovascular system to body tissues.
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