Equations Used in Introduction of the Concept of Resting Membrane Potential in Modern Textbooks of Human Physiology: Traditions and Alternatives
Equations Used in Introduction of the Concept of Resting Membrane Potential in Modern Textbooks of Human Physiology: Traditions and Alternatives

Summary/Abstract: In the system of medical education physiology is a discipline of key importance based on very dynamic field of scientific knowledge. Permanent emergence and accumulation of new facts and concepts make teaching of physiology challenging task where success and effectiveness are highly dependent on abilities of teaching staff and authors of textbooks constantly to evaluate, re-evaluate and improve teaching approaches, learning objectives and sometimes even to revise whole paradigms in organizing and prioritizing essential parts of the curriculum. Resting membrane potential (RMP) is a concept of critical importance in physiology and particularly in physiology of excitable structures. Equations quantitatively characterizing RMP are widely used in teaching practice as a tool bridging the gap between fundamental biophysical phenomena and complex physiological processes. Use of different equations in introduction of the concept of RMP in modern teaching literature is studied and critically evaluated. Alternative approaches are discussed in search for improvement and optimization of traditional methods of teaching resting membrane potential in courses and textbooks of human physiology. Study is based on the review and content analysis of different editions of more than 25 modern textbooks of human physiology.

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