MDSA20010 Gastrointestinal Tract and Liver Biology

Academic Year 2020/2021

This is a core module for the MB BCh BAO degree in medicine and explains the structure of the digestive system, how it functions and how it is organised. The module also examines the relationship of the digestive system to adnexal structures in the gastrointestinal tract. Key concepts in digestion are explored in detail including gut microflora and immunity, secretory activity in the stomach as well as in the glands associated with the digestive process (pancreas, liver) and the metabolism of nutrients. The practical and theoretical application of some of these concepts to health and disease is also examined.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Biomedical Knowledge: following successful completion of all elements in this module students should be able to recognise and demonstrate the fundamental structure of the various components of the digestive tract and associated accessory organs as well as an understanding of the specialized functions of the GI tract and liver including digestion, absorption and nutrient metabolism. Examples of radiographic imaging will correlate normal structure and clinical investigation.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24

Practical

12

Computer Aided Lab

12

Autonomous Student Learning

52

Total

100

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
1) Lectures
2) Dissection based practicals
3) Computer aided learning practicals 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Recommendations:

This module will be easier to understand if you already have some basic knowledge of structure and function (muscles, blood vessels, nerves). The practical classes in this module include whole-body dissection and computer-based histology.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Incompatibles:
ANAT20160 - GI/GU Structure, MDSA20160 - GI/GU Structure, PHYS30090 - Digestion and Excretion


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Examination: Twenty question anatomy spotter MCQ based examination Week 12 No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

10

Examination: A 30 question online Brightspace quiz assessing both anatomy and physiology with a balanced blend of question types (MCQ, fill in the blank, identify and order structures and processes). Week 12 No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

40

Continuous Assessment: A total of 5 CAL assessments will be completed as continuous assessment (1 formative and 4 summative) . From the 4 summative assessments students carry forward their best 3 grades. Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

10

Examination: A 30 question online Brightspace quiz assessing both anatomy and physiology with a balanced blend of question types (MCQ, fill in the blank, identify and order structures and processes). Week 7 No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

40


Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 1 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Overall feedback will be provided via Brightspace. Requests for individualised feedback can be accommodated. Any student wishing to avail of this should arrange an appointment with the module coordinator.

Name Role
Dr Paul Crossey Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Eoin Cummins Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Neil Gerard Docherty Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor James Jones Tutor