Gastrointestinal jabberwocky to bioengineering design: using function diagrams to teach physiology.

Function diagrams put the focus on physiology and physiological concepts rather than the associated anatomy. Function diagrams could potentially serve as an elaboration tool and memory aid (mnemonic) to improve learning and recall. The function diagram prototype of the gastrointestinal system can aid in the instruction of difficult gastrointestinal physiology topics using a sequential focus on fundamental gastrointestinal functions.