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HLHSCI 249 - Medical Terminology - Vickie Valenziano, RN, MSN

Course:Medical Terminology
Professor:Vickie Valenziano, RN, MSN
Email:vickie.valenziano@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Online
Course Length:
  • 16 Week

Introduction

Photograph of instructor

Welcome to medical terminology!  Reasons for taking this course vary.  Some students are planning on entering the medical field and want a head start, some are already working in the field, and others plan to enroll in courses which recommend medical terminology before beginning. Course content and learning activities will meet the needs of all of these students by providing opportunities to explore information at your individual level.

Course Description

The course will encompass a comprehensive study of medical terminology with an emphasis on determining meanings by dividing words into their component parts. You will learn a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology which is discussed throughout each chapter.  Correct spelling, pronunciation and meaning of common medical terms related to individual body systems, clinical procedures, laboratory tests and pathological conditions are covered.

What to Expect in this Course

We will cover one body system (textbook chapter) each week.  Students will be responsible for reading the textbook chapters, watching recorded PowerPoint lectures, completing word activity sheets, and contributing to discussion posts.  Case studies will also be used for additional learning. You will need regular access to a computer and an internet browser (Firefox and Chrome work best with Canvas).  Canvas is the platform that COC uses to post assignments and communicate with students.  A printer is helpful for the activity sheets and PowerPoints.

Types of Assessments

Student assessments will include exams, online discussion boards, and some written assignments (case studies).

Textbook Information

You will need the textbook for this course for definitions, pathological conditions, and course activities.  There are purchase, rental, and online options. (Past students recommend the rental option.)  Obtain the textbook so that you have it for the first week of class.

Other Relevant Course Information

Taking an online class requires students to be self-motivated to learn and have strong time management skills to meet deadline dates. I want you to be successful, and encourage students to maintain contact with me throughout the course so I can assist with your learning. 

For the first day of class, follow one of these scenarios:

If you are officially enrolled in the class, log in to Canvas between 7 am and 11:00 pm and complete the items outlined in Modules. You will be sent an email prior to class beginning with further instructions. Failure to log in during that time will result in you being listed as a "no show" and you will be dropped from the class.

If you are on the waitlist, email me on the first day of class between 7 am and 11:00 pm to let me know if you are still interested in the class. After 11:00 pm I will know if there is a spot for you and will email you. Waitlisted students will be added in order of their position on the waitlist.

If you are a COC student but not enrolled or on the waitlist for this course, and you want to add, email me between 7 am and 11:00 pm and I will let you know if there is a spot available.

I will not add students after the first 5 days of the semester.


Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 12/08/2023 Sub#: 204