OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
edX logo

Tissue Biology

Stephen Anderson

Cells are the fundamental living unit of all organisms and they work harmoniously to help us experience and respond to the world around us.

Read more

Cells are the fundamental living unit of all organisms and they work harmoniously to help us experience and respond to the world around us.

This course builds on the cell physiology content in the Specialized Cells course. We investigate more specialized cells looking at muscle cells and exploring how contractile proteins produce muscular contraction. We then explore nerve-muscle function in depth, examining the complex neuromotor system which governs both the conscious and unconscious control of our muscle movement and coordination. Finally, we investigate how we experience the world through some of our sensory modalities.

This interactive course incorporates videos and insights from experts in human physiology with assessment to test your new understanding of cell physiology.

What you'll learn

  • Understand how contractile proteins produce muscular function.
  • Gain an in-depth knowledge of nerve-muscle function
  • Appreciate how we experience the world through some of our sensory modalities.
Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand how contractile proteins produce muscular function.
  • Gain an in-depth knowledge of nerve-muscle function
  • Appreciate how we experience the world through some of our sensory modalities.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Stephen Anderson, who are recognized for their work in human physiology and the neurobiology of song, sleep, and circadian rhythms
Develops an in-depth knowledge of nerve-muscle function, which is core for understanding neurology and physiology
Examines how we experience the world through our sensory modalities, which is highly relevant to the fields of cognitive science and psychology
Explores how contractile proteins produce muscular function, which is a fundamental concept in exercise science and sports medicine
Incorporates videos and insights from experts in human physiology, which provides a multi-modal and engaging learning experience
Requires some background knowledge in cell physiology, which may not be suitable for complete beginners

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Comprehensive human tissue biology

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation and in-depth coverage, particularly praised for its exploration of muscle contraction and nerve-muscle function. Students found the instructor explained complex topics clearly, and many appreciated the high-quality videos and engaging lectures. The interactive assessments are also highlighted as effective for reinforcing understanding. However, a recurring point is that the course assumes significant prior knowledge in cell biology, which can make the pace challenging or the content too dense for beginners. Some also noted that certain explanations were too brief or the overall delivery felt occasionally dry.
Quizzes and assessments aid in reinforcing comprehension.
"The interactive assessments really helped solidify my understanding."
"The quizzes were fair."
"The assessments truly tested comprehension."
Benefits from clear organization and high-quality production.
"A very well-structured course."
"The videos were high quality and the instructor explained complex topics clearly."
"The expert insights were a valuable addition."
Instructor effectively simplifies complex topics and concepts.
"The instructor explained complex topics clearly. Overall, a great introduction."
"Clear, concise, and highly informative."
"The lectures were engaging and easy to follow."
Provides comprehensive insights into complex biological systems.
"Absolutely loved the detailed exploration of muscle contraction."
"Excellent course for deepening understanding of human physiology. The focus on contractile proteins and sensory modalities was comprehensive."
"As a physiology student, I found this course incredibly helpful. The depth of coverage on nerve-muscle interactions was exceptional."
Some found the pace rushed or the delivery occasionally dry.
"Some parts felt a bit rushed, especially the sensory modalities, which could use more depth."
"I struggled with this course. While the topics are important, the delivery felt dry and the videos were not always engaging."
"The material was too dense and the explanations were often confusing. I spent more time trying to find external resources to understand the concepts..."
Requires a strong foundation in cell biology or related study.
"I found the pace challenging without a strong prior understanding of cell physiology, even though it claimed to build on a previous course."
"The course assumes some prior knowledge, which is fair given it builds on 'Specialized Cells', but new learners might struggle."
"It definitely builds on prior knowledge, so ensure you have a strong base in cell biology."
"Honestly, this course was a major disappointment... Not for beginners."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Tissue Biology with these activities:
Explore 'Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach'
Gain a comprehensive understanding of human physiology as a foundation for this course.
View Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read assigned chapters and review key concepts.
  • Highlight and take notes to enhance your understanding and retention.
  • Consider creating diagrams or concept maps to visualize physiological processes.
Review Biology Concepts
Review key biological concepts to enhance your understanding of cell physiology.
Show steps
  • Revisit concepts from high school biology textbooks or online resources.
  • Focus on topics like cell structure, function, and molecular biology.
  • Consider using flashcards or practice questions to test your understanding.
Lead a Study Group
Enhance your understanding by sharing knowledge and facilitating group discussions.
Show steps
  • Organize a study group with classmates or fellow students.
  • Take turns leading discussions, reviewing concepts, and solving problems.
  • Provide support and guidance to other participants, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Muscle Contraction Practice Problems
Engage in practice problems to solidify your grasp of muscle contraction mechanisms.
Show steps
  • Utilize practice problems from textbooks, online platforms, or instructors.
  • Focus on solving problems related to sarcomere structure, calcium ion roles, and energy production.
  • Consider forming study groups with classmates to discuss and learn together.
Attend a Muscle Physiology Workshop
Immerse yourself in hands-on learning experiences to reinforce your knowledge.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for relevant muscle physiology workshops in your area.
  • Actively participate in demonstrations, experiments, and discussions led by experts.
  • Engage with fellow participants to exchange knowledge and perspectives.
Nerve-Muscle Function Simulations
Explore interactive simulations to visualize and understand nerve-muscle interactions.
Show steps
  • Identify online platforms or software that provide nerve-muscle function simulations.
  • Follow the guided tutorials and explore various aspects of nerve-muscle physiology.
  • Take advantage of interactive features to manipulate variables and observe the impact on muscle responses.
Assist in a Physical Therapy Clinic
Gain practical experience by observing and assisting in muscle-related rehabilitation.
Show steps
  • Contact physical therapy clinics and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist physical therapists with patient assessments, exercises, and treatments.
  • Observe and learn about muscle function, rehabilitation techniques, and patient care.
Sensory Perception Project
Design and conduct a project to investigate and demonstrate sensory perception principles.
Browse courses on Sensory Physiology
Show steps
  • Choose a specific sensory modality to focus on (e.g., vision, hearing, touch).
  • Develop a research question or hypothesis related to sensory perception.
  • Design and conduct your experiment, ensuring ethical considerations are met.
  • Analyze and interpret your results, drawing conclusions about sensory perception.
  • Create a presentation or report showcasing your project and findings.
Contribute to Muscle Physiology Research
Engage in open-source research projects to deepen your understanding and contribute to the field.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source muscle physiology research projects (e.g., on platforms like GitHub).
  • Review project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
  • Join the project community, connect with researchers, and contribute your expertise.
  • Present your contributions at conferences or publish your findings to share your knowledge.

Career center

Learners who complete Tissue Biology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cell Biologist
Cell Biologists study cells at the molecular level, including their structure, function, and behavior. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in cell biology as it explores the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cell Biologist
Medical Researcher
Medical Researchers conduct research to discover the causes and cures of diseases. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in medical research as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to research on diseases that affect these cells or tissues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Researcher
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and technologies. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in biomedical engineering as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the design and development of medical devices and technologies that interact with these cells or tissues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Engineer
Pharmacologist
Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on the body. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in pharmacology as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the study of how drugs interact with these cells or tissues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacologist
Toxicologist
Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on the body. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in toxicology as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the study of how toxic substances affect these cells or tissues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists collect and analyze evidence in criminal cases. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in forensic science as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the analysis of biological evidence in criminal cases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Scientist
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainers work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in athletic training as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the prevention and treatment of injuries in athletes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Athletic Trainer
Chiropractor
Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in chiropractic as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor
Massage Therapist
Massage Therapists use massage to promote relaxation and relieve pain. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in massage therapy as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the practice of massage therapy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Massage Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to improve their ability to perform everyday tasks. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in occupational therapy as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the development of treatment plans for people with disabilities or injuries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to improve their movement and function. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in physical therapy as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the development of treatment plans for people with disabilities or injuries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physical Therapist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists help people with speech, language, and swallowing disorders. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in speech-language pathology as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the diagnosis and treatment of speech, language, and swallowing disorders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speech-Language Pathologist
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in veterinary medicine as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinarian
Physiologist
Physiologists study the functions and mechanisms of living organisms. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in physiology as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the study of the functions and mechanisms of living organisms.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physiologist
Biophysicist
Biophysicists study the physical principles that govern biological systems. This course, Tissue Biology, may be useful for those interested in biophysics as it provides a foundation in the physiology of cells, including how they work together to help us experience and respond to the world around us. The course also covers specialized cells, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, and how they function. This knowledge can be applied to the study of the physical principles that govern biological systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biophysicist

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Tissue Biology.
Cover image
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Save
This textbook provides an in-depth overview of human physiology, covering topics such as cell physiology, muscle function, nerve-muscle function, and sensory modalities. It comprehensive resource that can be used to supplement or replace the course.
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology IE -...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Boron & Boulpaep Concise Medical Physiology
Save
This textbook is another comprehensive resource that covers a wide range of topics in human physiology. It is particularly strong in its coverage of cell physiology and muscle function.
Boron & Boulpaep Concise Medical Physiology
Paperback
$$$
Vanders Human Physiology
Save
This textbook concise and well-written overview of human physiology. It good choice for students who are looking for a more accessible resource.
ISE Vander's Human Physiology
Paperback
$$$
Loose Leaf Vander's Human Physiology
Loose Leaf
$$$
Cover image
Berne and Levy Physiology Elsevier eBook on...
Save
This textbook classic resource in the field of physiology. It is known for its clear and concise writing style.
Berne and Levy Physiology Elsevier eBook on...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Cover image
Human Physiology
Save
This textbook is known for its integrated approach to human physiology. It good choice for students who are interested in learning about the human body as a whole.
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach
Kindle Edition
$$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach Plus...
Hardcover
$$$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach (7th...
Hardcover
$$$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach (6th...
Hardcover
$$
Mastering A&P with Pearson eText -- Standalone...
Printed Access Code
$$$
Mastering A&P with Pearson eText -- Standalone...
Printed Access Code
$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach (5th...
Hardcover
$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach, Books a...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach, 4th...
Hardcover
$$
MasteringA&P with Pearson eText -- Standalone...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Cover image
Brs Physiology 8e (us Ed)
Save
This textbook popular choice for medical students. It is known for its clear and concise writing style.
BRS Physiology (Board Review Series)
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Children′s Thinking
Save
This textbook good choice for students who are interested in learning more about sensory processes.
Children′s Thinking
Paperback
Check
Children′s Thinking
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Animal Physiology: From Genes to Organisms
Save
This textbook good choice for students who are looking for a comprehensive overview of human physiology.
Animal Physiology: From Genes to Organisms
Hardcover
$$$$
Animal Physiology: From Genes to Organisms (with...
Hardcover
$$$
Animal Physiology: From Genes to Organisms
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Save
This textbook good choice for students who are looking for a more concise overview of human physiology.
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Paperback
Check
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Kindle Edition
Check
Introduction to the Human Body
Save
This textbook good choice for students who are new to the study of human physiology.
Introduction to the Human Body
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Introduction to the Human Body
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to the Human Body, 11e WileyPLUS Card...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Introduction to the Human Body
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to the Human Body: The Essentials of...
Hardcover
$$
Introduction to the Human Body: Learning Guide, The...
Paperback
$$
Learning Guide to accompany Introduction to the...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to the Human Body 9e + WileyPLUS...
Hardcover
$$$$
Introduction to the Human Body (Illustrated...
Spiral-bound
$
Introduction to the Human Body, 11th Edition
Kindle Edition
$$$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Tissue Biology.
Anatomy & Physiology: Exchange and Energy
Most relevant
Medical Terminology and the Human Body Fundamentals
Most relevant
Foundations of Human Anatomy and Physiology
Most relevant
Introductory Biology
Most relevant
Anatomy & Physiology: Levels of Organization
Most relevant
General Biology I: Foundations of Biology
Most relevant
Easy Anatomy and Physiology (Platinum Edition)
Most relevant
BioGenius: Complete Guide to Biology Fundamentals | IGCSE
Most relevant
Complete Cell Biology Course: Learn Cell Structure,...
Most relevant

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

World-Class University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

Free Audit Track Available

Free audit track available for most courses, giving open access to video lectures, course readings, and assignments at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Full Refund Window

14-day full refund available up to 14 days after course start or 14 days after payment (whichever comes second, up to 6 months max), provided verified certificate has not yet been earned.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

University-backed credentials authored by elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, with tamper-proof certificate verification.

Key Purchase Protections
Free audit track for open learning access
14-day money-back guarantee on verified certificates
Prestigious university credentials (Harvard, MIT)
Automatic unenrollment refund process via dashboard
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
3 to 5 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The University of Queensland
Instructor
Stephen Anderson
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Stephen Anderson, who are recognized for their work in human physiology and the neurobiology of song, sleep, and circadian rhythms
Develops an in-depth knowledge of nerve-muscle function, which is core for understanding neurology and physiology
Examines how we experience the world through our sensory modalities, which is highly relevant to the fields of cognitive science and psychology
Explores how contractile proteins produce muscular function, which is a fundamental concept in exercise science and sports medicine
Incorporates videos and insights from experts in human physiology, which provides a multi-modal and engaging learning experience
Requires some background knowledge in cell physiology, which may not be suitable for complete beginners
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Tissue Biology.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser