SCN3230-ABED_1: Module 3 Introduction

Introduction

As you experienced puberty, you probably gained some personal knowledge about the unique features in both males and females that support sexual reproduction. These structures are specialized to perform unique functions to ensure production of the next generation and survival of the human species. You may already think that you know the differences between the male and female reproductive systems, but in this module, you will discover other structures that are unique and suited to perform specialized functions. You will study how sexually transmitted infections can affect the reproductive systems and possibly a developing fetus.

To understand how the human species has managed to increase its population on a constantly changing planet, you will examine the human reproductive systems. In the first of two sections in this module, you will examine the structures and functions of the human reproductive system and the implications on fertility of sexually transmitted infections.

Hormone regulation of the male and female reproductive system causes the maturation of sex development. Both male and female hormones occur in each sex but in very different amounts.

During reproductive years, men are estimated to produce 6 to 8 mg of testosterone daily, but women produce only about 0.5 mg daily. Male hormones are produced at a steadier rate and do not fluctuate as cyclically as female hormones do. Estrogen levels in women are between 149 and 210 pg/mL. Men also produce a small amount of estrogen, about 21 to 30 pg/mL.

Sex hormone distribution is controlled by negative feedback systems that maintain the appropriate amounts of hormones for sexual maturation and function. As both men and women go through the aging process, the quantities of sex hormones produced reduce.

Suggested Timeline

This module has six lessons. Please use the following suggested timeline to help you keep on track. Keep in mind that the number of hours required on each lesson varies among individuals. Some students may find that they need significantly more time to review the course material; students who have completed this course before might require less time. Use the following table as a guide to set your own personal timeline to complete this course.

Lesson	Topic	Suggested Hours to Spend on the Lesson	Equivalent Number of Classes in School
1	The Human Male Reproductive System	3 hours	1 class
2	The Human Female Reproductive System	3 hours	1 class
3	Sexually Transmitted Infections	3 hours	1 class
4	Sex Development and Male Hormones	5 hours	2 classes
5	Female Hormones: Menstrual Cycle	8 hours	3 classes
6	Effects of Reproductive Hormones	3 hours	1 class

If you plan to spend about 2 hours per day on this course, you might complete this module in about 2.5 weeks.

Assignments

There are three assignments in this module. Assignment 3A and 3B are computer graded and you will receive immediate feedback. Assignment 3C contains written response type questions and will not be computer graded.

Assignment	Topic	Number of Questions	Total Marks
Assignment 3A	Lessons 1 ~ 3	37 Questions	38 Marks
Assignment 3B	Lessons 4 ~ 6	39 Questions	41 Marks
Assignment 3C (Written)	Lessons 1 ~ 6	24 Questions	51 Marks