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How to Study Physiology
Physiology is known as a conceptually demanding course with little emphasis on memorization. The physical and mechanical processes of the organ systems are occurring through time, so the goal in studying is to be able to predict the physiologic response from various stimuli. Try the following study strategies and tips to help you learn how to study physiology.
Study Tip #1 - Keep in mind the Big Picture
- Most organs in the human body are functioning to maintain or return to a healthy and quiet state of existence, this is called homeostasis. In the broadest of terms, this means that a stimulus sets off a trigger, that causes a response or action from a system. This is much like the way your thermostat is set at 70° F. When the temperature in the room drops below, say 68° , it stimulates the furnace. The action is that it pumps more heat into the room to bring the temperature back to 70°. In the body, there is also a system to counter the "furnace", and bring the temperature back towards 70° when it breaks above 72°. So the body's organ systems are engaging in a push-and-pull war that is constantly working to maintain the body's vitals at normal levels. Keep this example in mind, and most complicated relationships will fit into this model. For clear explanations and useful diagrams try this book, Physiology
.Study Tip #2 - Memorize a formula, but know the concept.
- The formulas merely portray a relationship - that is it. Don't get caught up on inserting numbers and magically arriving at the solution. In other words, the student must understand that if "x" goes up, then "y" goes down. Use numbers when your are studying to make sure you get the meaning, but the purpose is to realize that a formula means that many different factors are related to each other in specific ways.
Study Tip #3 - Know the systems purpose.
- This is most important in hypothetical scenarios, like a trauma event, a favorite for exam questions. Take the kidneys for example, they filter blood, form urine, maintain pH, and secrete hormones. However, their first priority is to maintain blood pressure; and in a hemorrhage state, this will trump all other functions.
Study Tip #4 - Use interactive graphs.
- The concepts of human physiology are dynamic, that is that they are functioning within a significant time component. Take the heart for example, you may know everything about the pressure-volume loop and the frank-starling law, but if you fail to incorporate time it will be difficult to comprehend the functioning system. Look at the electrical activity for example, the AV node slows down the contraction signal so that the ventricles have time to fill. Keep this in mind when the heart rate or contractility is considered.
Study Tip #5 - Explain the concepts to somebody else.
- Ideally it would be to a classmate who can question your statements, but it even works with your 5 year old brother. The point is that the concepts of medical physiology often take the shape of circles. Students can understand individual legs of the system, but they have difficulty connecting the dots. By organizing all of your thoughts and translating them into a logical flow of speech, you will solidify your understanding of the human body.
