What do we mean when we talk about structure/function relationships?

In multiple studies structure/function has been identified as an important core concept in biology and physiology. Teachers expect their students to be able to use this concept in making sense of physiology. However, it is unclear exactly what physiologists are referring to when they use the term structure/function. Here I first offer examples of four different ways in which I have used the term in the classroom. Then, I propose a conceptual framework that is an explicit statement of the structure/function core concept that can be used by teachers and their students as they attempt to master physiology. Determining whether this conceptual framework is completely accurate and whether it will prove useful in the classroom will require feedback from physiology teachers who attempt to use it in their classroom with their students.

Automated summary

Structure/function is considered an important core concept in biology and physiology, but its exact definition and application remain unclear. The author presents four different ways of using the term in the classroom, along with a conceptual framework for teachers and students to master physiology. Feedback from physiology teachers using this framework in their classrooms will be necessary to determine its accuracy and usefulness.