Discussion: ALTERATIONS IN CELLULAR PROCESSES

 wanted to let you know how I grade discussions in this course so that you will be clear about what I expect. Simply put, I use the rubric in order to make sure I am consistent across all courses. I often have students tell me that other instructors did not deduct for certain things, so I want to clarify how I grade and what my expectations are. 

Of course, in discussion I look to make sure you cover the items that are supposed to be discussed, that you utilize APA formatting and that in general your post is easy to read/understand. In your Initial Discussion Post I expect you to include an introductory paragraph with a purpose statement. Subsequently you would include the “body” of the post including the requisites of the discussion post, then a summary/conclusion. References are to be formatted according to APA (I know that these get messed with some when posting, so no worries there).

At least 3 Level 1 headings are to be used in your Initial Discussion Post (don’t be surprised if there are deductions made if you have not included them).

You are supposed to participate in discussion on 3 different days and I check to ensure that this is done (and that all posts are completed on or before Day 6 – that day being Saturday until 10:00 PM (CST). Points are deducted for not participating in discussion on 3 different days and posts made on Day 7 are not counted.  So, if not submitted in time, do not waste your time posting.

You are required to post your Initial Post on or before Day 3 by 10:00 PM CST. Points are deducted for failing to meet this guideline – in other words you will be marked late. You are also required to respond to 2 of your fellow classmates’ Initial Posts.  Points are deducted for not responding to 2 of your classmates’ Initial Posts.  All posts are supposed to be of substantive content and/or ask a thoughtful question.

You are additionally supposed to respond to anyone (and that includes me) who makes a comment on your post.

Keep in mind that one of your requirements is to have a backup in the case of internet issues with your primary source.  That means that internet difficulties are not acceptable as an excuse for not meeting the requirements of the Weekly Discussion Board or your Assignment.

Communication is of the utmost importance so keep me apprised if you are having any difficulties and that should be done as they arise and not after deadlines have been missed.

Keep in mind that posts are to be made on or before Day 6 (Saturday). Discussions cannot be made up. That is a university policy, not mine. So, if you miss a discussion, I usually advise that it’s not beneficial for you to try to “make it up” as there is no allowance for that, so it’s best to save your time and use it on something that will contribute to your success in the course, such as working on your assignment and/or working on your next discussion.

Let me know if any of you have any questions or if I can clarify any of the above information.*******************************

THE ASSIGNMENT 

At its core, pathology is the study of disease. Diseases occur for many reasons. But some, such as cystic fibrosis and Parkinson’s Disease, occur because of alterations that prevent cells from functioning normally.

Understanding of signals and symptoms of alterations in cellular processes is a critical step in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. For the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.

For this Discussion, you examine a case study and explain the disease that is suggested. You examine the symptoms reported and explain the cells that are involved and potential alterations and impacts.

To prepare:

By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to a specific scenario for this Discussion. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.

Post an explanation of the disease highlighted in the scenario you were provided. Include the following in your explanation:

The role genetics plays in the disease.

Why the patient is presenting with the specific symptoms described.

The physiologic response to the stimulus presented in the scenario and why you think this response occurred.

The cells that are involved in this process.

How another characteristic (e.g., gender, genetics) would change your response.