The learning strategies of the module is centred on an interactive assessment strategy employed through the use of portfolio building, of which a fuller explanation and detailed rationale is contained in the introduction to the student handbook.

The general mode of delivering this module is through seminar and workshop activities using role-play, video, published papers and practical work/case studies etc., as illustrations. A feature of the delivery will be the use of discussions with you, based on evidence you have gathered for your portfolio and through this, you will be encouraged to reflect on your previous and current work. Formal lectures (about 15% or 4 hours of University class contact time) will only be used to ensure particular points of knowledge. These will be a stimulant to work and debate elsewhere in the delivery with group work practical activities (about 85% or 23 hours of University class contact time).

In the design of this module particular emphasis has been placed on a strategy to integrate the whole process of knowledge delivery, clinical application and assessment. It is designed to ensure that all strands of the educational experience contribute to learning and to giving you the confidence to enter research and debate. The teaching will be presented using interactive strategies reflecting contemporary adult learning principles. Group work will assure that clinical experiences are shared as part of the overall learning process.

Library and Information resources
CD-Rom and Internet
Personal computer and printer
Critical appraisal checklists
Hard copies of research publications
Access to staff responsible via email and 'office hours' at appropriate times

The assignment written as if for publication or seminar presentation detailing your study of different imaging modalities and your reflection on how you will use this in your future practice. LOs 1 - 5

The learning diary will demonstrate how you developed the argument presented in your assignment. LOs 1 - 5

Pass
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breadth and depth of literature and knowledge in the subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the advancement of the boundaries of knowledge and is used as a basis for problem - solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate.

Merit
A piece of work which meets all the requirements of a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual - based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively.

Distinction
An outstanding piece of work which meets all of the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation.
There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought.
The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new ideas

The following texts are suggested reading:

Berquist, T. (2002) Musculoskeletal imaging companion USA, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, ISBN 0-7817-3656-0
Manaster, B. , Dissler, D., and May, D. (2001) 2nd ed. Musculoskeletal imaging: the requisites. USA, Mosby ISBN 0-323-01189-6
Miller, T., Finzel, K. (eds.) (2000) Musculoskeletal imaging USA, McGraw-Hill, ISBN 0-07-043257-0
Stoller, S. (2001) Pocket radiologist: musculoskeletal: Top 100 diagnoses. USA, W B Saunders. ISBN 0-7216-9701-1
Yu, J. (2001) Musculoskeletal imaging: case review USA, Mosby ISBN 0323-01620-0

The module is aimed at any health care professional with an interest in musculoskeletal diagnosis and relevant professional qualifications involving treatment of patients.

The practice of modern health care relies heavily on diagnostic imaging modalities for confirmation of the findings of clinical examination. X-rays have been employed in diagnosis for over 100 hundred years. You will investigate the diagnostic capability of X-rays and how these have been enhanced by the introduction and continued development of Computer Tomography (CT) scanners, now capable of highly complex three-dimensional re-constructions. In addition to plain radiography and CT scanning you will study alternative imaging modalities that the diagnostician or therapist needs to consider when evaluating the best course of action for a patient. Nuclear medicine offers an alternative that provides physiological information rather than pure anatomy, while ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging provides modalities that do not employ ionising radiation. In exploring the alternative imaging modalities it is essential for you to know as a diagnostician not only what information these will provide for a diagnosis but what is the best way to attain that information.

Your study on this module will provide you with a knowledge of the features and diagnostic perspectives of each type of imaging technology furnishing you with a mechanism of assessing how best to select the particular type of technology in your own practice and how to specify this. You will be asked to reflect on your current practice and to assess how applied imaging can push forward the boundaries of your professional diagnostic scope of practice.