Issues surrounding communication as it impacts upon a variety of health care settings will be explored. In particular, the consequences of perceived deficits in this area will be examined for their influence on treatment compliance, regimen adherence, general recovery and adaptation to altered health states. In addition to communication's role in the fields of prevention, preparation and support, the module will examine how communication can act as a vehicle for assessment and devaluation of patients.

Learning strategies will incorporate interactive seminars (15 hours), where discussions and debates will take place. Students will be invited to contribute personal experience of their contact with health care professionals where appropriate. Group reviews of research in communication within specific areas will be presented in a student-led session. There will be ample opportunity for students to investigate and present their suggestions for improvement in the communication process during the sessions
Essay preparation, seminar preparation and independent learning will take 135 hours.
Total of 150 hours.

At least a good second class (hons) degree in Psychology (GBR recognized) or equivalent.

You will need access to information search facilities such as BIDS, Web
of Science, Psychinfo, and the internet; video and video playback facilities; computers

Points 1 - 3 will be assessed via an essay of not more than 3000 words, which requires students to select an area of health care of their
choice (eg. AIDS/HIV, cancer, rehabilitation, mental health smoking etc), and to identify and explore the specific factors which impact upon
the communication between that client group and the health care professionals that are responsible for their care. Special attention will need to be paid to the inclusion of a critical appraisal of the
relevant research literature in terms of its methodological robustness and generalisability. (100%)

Pass criteria
Grade Point 7-9
Work which demonstrates a sound awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Expressed reasonably and coherently. Work is academically sound, evidencing focused observations and acknowledging key questions. There is evidence of sound reading and thorough critical analysis of the available literature.

Merit criteria
Grade Point 10-12
Work which demonstrates a very good awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Expressed cogently and lucidly. Work is of good quality academically, evidencing well-focused observations and addressing all of the obvious key questions. There is evidence of sound reading and a thorough critical analysis of the available literature, leading to an output which may have potential for wider use.

Distinction criteria
Grade Point 13+
Work which demonstrates an excellent awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Well argued and excellently organised. Work is academically excellent, evidencing perceptiveness, insight and demonstrating creativity and originality. There is evidence of excellent reading and systematic review.