Course Syllabus

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PEP 4200  Syllabus

Instructor:  Jessica Wing     Semester: Fall 2018
Email: jessica.wing@usu.edu Credit: 4 units

Course Description

Introduction and application of human functional anatomy and biomechanical principles important to human movement.  In lab, students will experience the application of principles of functional anatomy and biomechanics.

Required Textbook:  Hall, S. J. (2014).  Basic Biomechanics (7th ed).  Dubuque, IA: WCB/McGraw-Hill.

Prerequisites:  BIO 2320, BIO 2420, PEP 3250, and MATH 1050 or STATS 1040/1045/+

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of basic anatomical terminology.
  2. Define and apply basic biomechanical concepts to human movement situations.
  3. Describe anatomical and biomechanical factors that influence muscle force production.
  4. Define and apply kinematic and kinetic measures to linear and angular human motion in order to quantify various aspects of movement.
  5. Define torque and discuss why it is a measure of human strength.
  6. Identify the factors that influence torque production in the intact musculoskeletal system.

Schedule

Week Topic Assignment
1 (Aug. 27-31) Ch. 1 & 2; Introduction; Kinematic Concepts Introduction Discussion, QuizA, Ack, CYU
2 (Sept. 4-7) Ch. 3; Kinetic Concepts Assignment 1
3 (Sept. 10-14) Ch. 4; Biomechanics of Bone Lab 1
4 (Sept. 17-21) Ch. 5 & 6; Biomechanics of Joints & Muscles Quiz 1
5 (Sept. 24-28) Ch. 6; Biomechanics of Muscle Assignment 2, Lab 2
6 (Oct. 1-5)  EXAM 1 EXAM 1 DUE
7 (Oct. 8-12) Ch. 10; Linear Kinematics Lab 3 & 4
8 (Oct. 15-18) Ch. 10; Linear Kinematics Assignment 3 & Lab 5
9 (Oct. 22-26) Ch. 11; Angular Kinematics Quiz 2
10 (Oct. 29-Nov. 2) EXAM 2 EXAM 2 DUE
11 (Nov. 5-9) Ch. 12 & 15; Linear Kinetics Lab 6 & 7
12 (Nov. 12-16) Ch. 12 & 15; Linear Kinetics Assignment 4
13 (Nov. 19-20) Ch. 13; Angular Kinetics
14 (Nov. 26-30) Ch. 14; Angular Kinetics Quiz 3
15 (Dec. 3-7) Ch. 14; Angular Kinetics Term Paper
16 (Dec. 10-14) EXAM 3 EXAM 3 DUE

Course Outline

 

Evaluation

  1. Exams:                                250 points
  2. Laboratory:                          150 points
  3. Introductory Problems:         0  points
  4. Assignments:                       40 points
  5. Quizzes:                               40 points
  6. Discussions:                         Extra credit points
  7. Term Paper (Research):       30 points

Points possible…………………..510 points

Grading Scale

A         469-510 points            A-        459-468 points

B+       448-458 points            B         418-447 points            B-        408-417 points

C+       397-407 points            C         367-396 points            C-        357-366 points

D+       346-356 points            D         306-345 points           

F          < 305 points

 

Exams

There are 3 exams that will be multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats. No notes, help from the textbook, other people, outside resources, etc are allowed in helping you take the exam.  Exams are timed and proctored.  You are only given 1 attempt on each exam; no exam extensions or extra attempts are given. You are only allowed to bring a calculator and blank piece of paper/pencil to the exam, nothing else.  Students may take the exams any time during the unit, but must finish the exam by the exam deadline set for that unit at a testing center on campus or an approved site or with an approved proctor.  Again, all exams must be proctored--most students take the exams in a testing center on the various regional campuses, but you may look at the RCDE website under testing to see the other ways you may set up a proctor.  This is your responsibility, not mine. You should have your proctor approved within the first week of class and appointments set up 2 weeks in advance to take the exams. View the following link to see the process in how to set up your proctor: https://rcde.usu.edu/testing/index.cfm/public/students.  Please notice the deadlines for the exams.  Exams 1 & 2 have deadlines at 11:59 PM, but Unit 3’s Exam 3 has a deadline of 1:00 PM MST on the last day of class.  Plan ahead so as to meet the deadline, since no excuses are accepted for missing it.

Laboratory Exercises

The laboratory assignments are meant to give you hands-on experiences in applying the concepts presented in the course content sections. The lab is worth about 30% of your grade and will require you to complete seven different laboratory assignments.  As this is an online class, you will not have hands on experience with some equipment required, which means video will be used to allow you to complete the assignments on some.  Details will be given during your various laboratory assignments.

Introductory Problems

At the end of each chapter in your text book there are introductory problems that help you appreciate the information presented.  The answers to most questions are provided and therefore you are encouraged to complete these problems, but you will not turn in your answers.  I would also encourage you to complete the “Sample Problems” which are found within the text of each chapter.

Assignments

There are 4 assignments. The 4 assignments reinforce and apply key principles from the content presented.  The course outline indicates their due dates.

Quizzes

There are 6 quizzes total—3 concerning the syllabus and academic integrity, the other 3 concerning the course material (Quiz 1-3).  There will be one quiz covering material from each unit, and you are only given one attempt on each quiz.  The course outline indicates quiz dates.  The quizzes are not proctored, but are timed.  You are not allowed to use your notes, textbook, other people, outside resources, etc when you take the quiz.

Discussions

There will be several discussion topics presented throughout the semester. This is the only way you are able to earn extra credit in this class, so be sure to watch for them and comment before the deadline.  Discussion assignments typically require you to present and analyze case examples or scenarios using course concepts. Entries will be evaluated based on how well they demonstrate your ability in this regard. Grades will be recorded using the following system: 1 point = needs improvement, 2 points = meets minimum requirements and 3 points = demonstrates very well the ability to analyze using course concepts. There is also a discussion topic that is dedicated just for students.  Students should use this specific discussion board for questions that apply to students only, not to me.  This can allow you to ask questions to each other, arrange study groups at all the different campuses, etc.  Only positive, professional comments will be accepted and tolerated in this class.  Any question directed to the instructor should be emailed to Jessica.wing@usu.edu

Term Paper (Research)

Today, much of the new scientific knowledge is first reported to the scientific community via an oral or poster presentation at a scientific conference. Usually, in order to present new scientific knowledge at such a conference, scientists must first submit a short abstract describing the findings of their scientific study. This semester you will be asked to research a topic that involves biomechanics and then  prepare a short abstract that describes your research findings.  The details for the project will be presented on the assignment and can also be found on the Course Information on Canvas.  The project due date is indicated on the outline.

Announcements

Weekly announcements will be posted with helpful information and reminders.  Be sure to look for them each week throughout the semester.

General Class Information

  • Academic honesty policy:  Plagiarism is not acceptable in any way, shape, or form. Do not copy a previous student’s work, current student, internet, the textbook, etc. If caught, it is an automatic 0 for the assignment, and further action may be taken by the department. If you are caught cheating on an exam, it is an automatic 0 for that exam, an AIVF may be filed, and further action may be taken by the department as well. If you are caught cheating on an exam again, it is an automatic F for your final class grade. There is absolutely no tolerance for plagiarism or cheating. Please review the academic integrity slides for this class on Canvas as well as your acknowledgement of the honor pledge you have taken.
  • Late work is not accepted for ANY reason. You are given the due dates and deadlines for all quizzes, assignments, labs, and exams on the very first day of class, which is why if you do not meet the deadline it is a zero.  Even if the work is submitted 1 minute late, or there is a family emergency, surgery, funeral, internet is down, etc, it is a zero.  Work ahead to avoid an unforeseen problem that would inhibit you from turning your work in on time.  No exam, quiz, etc extensions are allowed. Be responsible for your work—this is a senior level class and that level of responsibility and work ethic is expected.  

    *Be aware that these deadlines are in Mountain Standard Time (MST). This means that the deadline isn’t at 11:59 PM or 1 PM wherever you live—it is at 11:59 PM MST or 1 PM MST no matter where you live!

  • Submissions:  Once you submit your file to Canvas for an assignment, it is considered gradable.  Do not submit a portion of the assignment, as if to save it, and then submit the other portion later for the completion of the entire assignment.  If I see a file has been submitted for the assignment, I will consider it finished and will proceed to grade it.  There are no resubmissions allowed.

  • Overall: Even though this is an online class, it is still expected that you stay on top of all of the material and put in at least 8 hours a week on this class. Many students underestimate the class and procrastinate until the last minute, which reflects on their grades. Exams will follow the textbook and lecture notes, and all other resources are for additional help if you need it. This is a basic online class--read the textbook and lecture notes, view the lecture videos, complete the assignments and labs, and study and take the exams which are open from day one and can be taken any time before the deadline.  Be sure you are taking the time to look at all of the extra links provided in the lecture notes, which contain extra math problems, conceptual examples that are worked out, as these will enhance your understanding and provide extra examples to study from—many of which, are known to be found on the exams. I will respond to emails within 48 business hours upon receiving it.

  • Source Guides (Journals):

    Journal of Biomechanics                                                  

    Journal of Applied Biomechanics            

    Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology

    Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise

    American Journal of Sports Medicine

    Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy

    Ergonomics

Canvas Information

Canvas is the where course content, grades, and communication will reside for this course.

University Policies & Procedures

Academic Freedom and Professional Responsibilities

Academic freedom is the right to teach, study, discuss, investigate, discover, create, and publish freely. Academic freedom protects the rights of faculty members in teaching and of students in learning. Freedom in research is fundamental to the advancement of truth. Faculty members are entitled to full freedom in teaching, research, and creative activities, subject to the limitations imposed by professional responsibility. Faculty Code Policy #403 further defines academic freedom and professional responsibilities.

Academic Integrity – "The Honor System"

Each student has the right and duty to pursue his or her academic experience free of dishonesty. To enhance the learning environment at Utah State University and to develop student academic integrity, each student agrees to the following Honor Pledge:
"I pledge, on my honor, to conduct myself with the foremost level of academic integrity."
A student who lives by the Honor Pledge is a student who does more than not cheat, falsify, or plagiarize. A student who lives by the Honor Pledge:

  • Espouses academic integrity as an underlying and essential principle of the Utah State University community;
  • Understands that each act of academic dishonesty devalues every degree that is awarded by this institution; and
  • Is a welcomed and valued member of Utah State University.

Academic Dishonesty

The instructor of this course will take appropriate actions in response to Academic Dishonesty, as defined the University’s Student Code.  Acts of academic dishonesty include but are not limited to:

  • Cheating: using, attempting to use, or providing others with any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, examinations, or in any other academic exercise or activity.  Unauthorized assistance includes:
    • Working in a group when the instructor has designated that the quiz, test, examination, or any other academic exercise or activity be done “individually;”
    • Depending on the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments;
    • Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for oneself, in taking an examination or preparing academic work;
    • Acquiring tests or other academic material belonging to a faculty member, staff member, or another student without express permission;
    • Continuing to write after time has been called on a quiz, test, examination, or any other academic exercise or activity;
    • Submitting substantially the same work for credit in more than one class, except with prior approval of the instructor; or engaging in any form of research fraud.
  • Falsification: altering or fabricating any information or citation in an academic exercise or activity.
  • Plagiarism: representing, by paraphrase or direct quotation, the published or unpublished work of another person as one‘s own in any academic exercise or activity without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes using materials prepared by another person or by an agency engaged in the sale of term papers or other academic materials.

For additional information go to: ARTICLE VI. University Regulations Regarding Academic Integrity

Sexual Harassment/Title IX

Utah State University is committed to creating and maintaining an environment free from acts of sexual misconduct and discrimination and to fostering respect and dignity for all members of the USU community. Title IX and USU Policy 339 (https://www.usu.edu/policies/339/) address sexual harassment in the workplace and academic setting.

The university responds promptly upon learning of any form of possible discrimination or sexual misconduct.  Any individual may contact USU’s Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity (AA/EO) Office for available options and resources or clarification, leading to an informal resolution of the matter. Further information and forms for reporting an incident to USU can be found here:http://aaeo.usu.edu

Withdrawal Policy and "I" Grade Policy

Students are required to complete all courses for which they are registered by the end of the semester. In some cases, a student may be unable to complete all of the coursework because of extenuating circumstances, but not due to poor performance or to retain financial aid. The term ‘extenuating’ circumstances includes: (1) incapacitating illness which prevents a student from attending classes for a minimum period of two weeks, (2) a death in the immediate family, (3) financial responsibilities requiring a student to alter a work schedule to secure employment, (4) change in work schedule as required by an employer, or (5) other emergencies deemed appropriate by the instructor.

Students with Disabilities

USU welcomes students with disabilities. If you have, or suspect you may have, a physical, mental health, or learning disability that may require accommodations in this course, please contact the Disability Resource Center (DRC) as early in the semester as possible (University Inn # 101, (435) 797‐2444, drc@usu.edu). All disability related accommodations must be approved by the DRC.  Once approved, the DRC will coordinate with faculty to provide accommodations.

Diversity Statement

Regardless of intent, careless or ill-informed remarks can be offensive and hurtful to others and detract from the learning climate. If you feel uncomfortable in a classroom due to offensive language or actions by an instructor or student(s) regarding ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, contact:

You can learn about your student rights by visiting:
The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University: https://studentconduct.usu.edu/studentcode

Grievance Process

Students who feel they have been unfairly treated may file a grievance through the channels and procedures described in the Student Code: Article VII.

Full details for USU Academic Policies and Procedures can be found at:

Emergency Procedures

In the case of a drill or real emergency, classes will be notified to evacuate the building by the sound of the fire/emergency alarm system or by a building representative. In the event of a disaster that may interfere with either notification, evacuate as the situation dictates (i.e., in an earthquake when shaking ceases or immediately when a fire is discovered). Turn off computers and take any personal items with you. Elevators should not be used; instead, use the closest stairs.

Course Summary:

Date Details Due