This module forms part of the Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme and is delivered over both semester one and semester two. All students take this module, apart from those on the Veterinary Science route who have their own professional studies module (HEAL012). The foundation route has ten health professional pathways leading to a vocational career where an understanding of health and social care is essential. This module is designed to introduce the Allied Health, Nursing, Medicine, Dental and Dental Therapy students to the health and social care environment and the issues currently faced within it. In addition it supports the development of study skills that will support students throughout their degree and into their professional careers.
The module is partly assessed through a reflective portfolio which can be carried forward throughout their degree and into clinical practice. Students will also create an assessed presentation on a topic that interests them and deliver it to their peers. This is an essential skill in health related careers where presentation of research findings at conferences is common.
Relevant topics to support development of the portfolio and presentation are delivered through interactive lectures, small group discussions, seminars and practical sessions.
The module contains compulsory elements such as a background to reflective practice and the use of portfolios; reflective assignments based upon the student’s own learning experiences and a short essay exploring the health and social care environment through research of published work. This final task demonstrates the students research skills that are essential moving forward in their studies.
A formative assessment opportunity is in place at the end of semester one to ensure a student has feedback on their work to feed forward into semester two and aid completion. The portfolio is submitted in electronic format using the University of Liverpool electronic platforms. The presentation is delivered either face to face or via a virtual learning platform.