Principles of Biomedical Sciences

This rigorous course provides an introduction to the biomedical sciences through exciting “hands-on” projects, problems, writing assignments, reading, speaking, listening, and thinking are order to strengthen literacy skills for each student Student work involves the study of human medicine, research processes and an introduction to bio-informatics. Students investigate the human body systems and various health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, sickle-cell disease, hypercholesterolemia, and infectious diseases. A theme through the course is to determine the factors that led to the death of a fictional person. After determining the factors responsible for the death, the students investigate lifestyle choices and medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. Key biological concepts including: homeostasis, metabolism, inheritance of traits, feedback systems, and defense against disease are embedded in the curriculum. Engineering principles including: the design process, feedback loops, fluid dynamics, and the relationship of structure to function are incorporated in the curriculum where appropriate. This course incorporates Project Based Learning (PBL) by extending classroom learning to real world applications. Through investigation, analysis and presentation students will master South Carolina Content Standards and Success Skills that include creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. The course is designed to provide an overview of all the courses in the Biomedical Sciences program and to lay the scientific foundation necessary for student success in the subsequent courses.