Program Overview

Module Overview

This module presents the structure and function of the integument and alimentary systems in various veterinary species. Cases underpin the presentation of this material to provide context and integration between the disciplines of anatomy, histology, physiology, and embryology. Students use dissection and laboratory sessions to develop their technical competencies. The PBL cases are used to underpin the anatomy and physiology and to enhance team learning and the development of independent learning skills.

Module Details

• Module code: VMS1004
• Module provider: School of Veterinary Medicine
• Module Leader: BASU Christopher (Vet Med)
• Number of Credits: 15
• ECTS Credits: 7.5
• Framework: FHEQ Level 4
• Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Overall Student Workload

• Independent Learning Hours: 70
• Lecture Hours: 26
• Seminar Hours: 5
• Practical/Performance Hours: 13
• Guided Learning: 10
• Captured Content: 26

Module Availability

• Semester 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

• None

Module Content

The module covers:

• Introduction to the basic gross structure and development of the integument, including hair, wool, feathers, hoof, and horn and associated organs such as mammary, sweat glands, and anal glands.
• Structure and development of the bovine udder, and comparative gross and cellular anatomy of the mammary glands of other species.
• Animal behaviors or clinical signs observable with Integumentary system disease.
• Introduction to the alimentary system using a monogastric animal as an example.
• Structures and development of the oral cavity, salivary glands, stomach, intestinal tract, liver, and pancreas.
• Introduction to gross structural variation in different species and how nutrition determines dental and gut structure and function.
• Comparative structures of oral cavity, introduction to the cellular structure of the components of the alimentary tract.
• Rumen complex and the hindgut of the horse, variations in the hindgut and their function.
• Comparative hepatic and pancreatic structure.
• Lagomorph, rodent, avian, fish, and reptilian alimentary systems.
• Introduction to alimentary system physiology and gut as a defense system.
• Oral cavity function, stages of digestion, single stomach function, comparative ruminant fore stomach function.
• Comparative intestinal tract function, liver and pancreatic function, and integration with digestive functions.
• Physiology of the gut in birds, fish, and reptiles.
• Animal behaviors related to the gastrointestinal system.

Practical Sessions

• Integument anatomy practical
• Applied Anatomy of the Skin and Digestive System in Small Animals and Horses
• Gastro-intestinal tract comparative anatomy practical
• Dissection of the gastro-intestinal tract in rabbits and ruminants
• Online virtual practicals
• Avian, lagomorph, and reptilian alimentary tract prosections
• Comparative integument and gut histology in various species
• PBL Case: Skin Normal skin physiology/anatomy scenario with PBL training

Assessment Pattern

• Oral exam or presentation: 10%
• Examination: 90%

Alternative Assessment

Problem-Based Learning - the alternative assessment to the group oral presentation is an individual oral examination.

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of the laboratory components, PBL, content knowledge, and integration of the various components of practical materials.

Module Aims

• Acquire an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system and the gut.
• Conduct basic clinical examinations to recognize the range of normal structure and function of the skin and gut.
• Understand how the integument system and the gut may impact on the overall condition and appearance of the animal.
• Acquire an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal (GI) system.
• Recognize normal and be aware of abnormal function through basic clinical examination.

Learning Outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to enhance students' technical skills, encourage integration of knowledge across multiple body systems, initiate physical examination skills, and introduce problem-based learning format and team learning.

Reading List

Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: VMS1004.

Other Information

The Surrey Framework consists of the attributes: employability, global and cultural capabilities, digital capabilities, sustainability, and resourcefulness and resilience. This module includes key topics that further develop one or more of these attributes.

Programmes this Module Appears In

• Programme: Veterinary Medicine and Science BVMSci (Hons)
• Semester: 1
• Classification: Compulsory
• Qualifying conditions: A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module.