Laboratory experience for teaching sensory physiology

ALBARRACÍN, ANA LIA; FARFÁN, FERNANDO; FELICE, CARMELO JOSÉ

Advances in Physiology Education

American Physiological Society

Año: 2009 vol. 33 p. 115 - 120

1043-4046

The major challenge in laboratory teaching is the application of abstract concepts in simple and direct practical lessons.  However, students rarely have the opportunity to participate in a laboratory that combine the practical learning with a realistic research experience. In the Bioengenieering Institute we started an experiential laboratory physiology to teach the students some aspects of sensorial physiology and exposes them to laboratory skills in instrumentation and physiological measurements. The students will be able to analyze and quantify the effects of activation of the mechanoreceptors in multifiber afferent discharges by using equipment which is not overly sophisticated. In consequence, this practical laboratory will help students to make connections with physiological concepts acquired in theoretical classes and to introduce them to electrophysiology research.