PT4000 - MSK anatomy and physiology

The main focus of the module is learning via face to face and online workshops, tutorials and independent learning. The module staff offer support to develop your learning and development across the module. There is a strong emphasis on practical skills required to practice effectively in musculoskeletal contexts, with opportunities to assess your progress formatively through active engagement in feedback. Learning in this module reflects HCPC and CSP recommendations for lifelong learning and continuous professional development, with the method of delivery mirroring what is expected and observed by qualified physiotherapists. Full day workshops, which will have a specific focus on one joint, will usually be delivered every week, with consolidatory weeks at key points of the module e.g. completion of a region. The primary focus is upon student led learning using group work, facilitated by teaching staff. These sessions are heavily practical based, and will require students to model for each other to explore palpation of the musculoskeletal system. There will be a large emphasis on directed study in order to prepare for each workshop. Online resources are available through the University learning platform and are used to support your directed learning, demonstrate the required structures, level of detail and content required. These are available for perusal prior to all workshops.

You will be expected to:
• Attend teaching sessions
• Be dressed appropriately for practical sessions
• Behave in a professional manner
• Engage and contribute to the learning and development of yourself and others

Module information, assessment requirements and expectations, and important module announcements will be made through the eLP. Material to support your learning will be uploaded in advance of sessions. You will be signposted to content via the module booklet and also verbally during timetabled sessions. Online resources are available through the University learning platform and are used to support your directed learning, demonstrate the required structures, level of detail and content required. The Module Leader is there to support you with any queries that you may have about the module content. You will have the opportunity to receive formative feedback on your development during the module, and you will receive feedback on summative work to help you identify areas of strength and areas for development. There will be the opportunity to discuss your feedback with a member of staff during taught sessions or by face to face or online tutorials as necessary. There is also further academic skills support available from the University Library services.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. To demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the musculoskeletal anatomy of the spine, pelvis, upper and lower limbs.
2. To discuss aetiology, pathology, clinical features and prognosis of common pathologies affecting the musculoskeletal system.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. To accurately locate, identify and palpate key structures of the musculoskeletal system using a range of human and physical resources.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
1. To gain informed consent, behave professionally and perform practical tasks alongside peers in a respectful manner.

Formative assessment: Your tutors will support you in developing your exam preparation through regular tutorial discussions and formative peer assessed tasks.

Summative assessment:
Assessment will be a practical based exam, focused upon one of seven anatomical areas. You will be randomly assigned to an area on the day of the exam. During the exam, you will be asked to identify and palpate, using a student model or physical resources e.g. skeleton, bones etc. your knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy. You will also be expected to describe key features of common pathologies that affecting this region, discussing their clinical presentation, aetiology and prognosis. Written feedback will be provided after the examination period has completed.

You will receive written and verbal formative feedback throughout the module following each workshop. You will be given written feedback on your summative assessment which can be discussed in person with the module tutor.
K&U 1,2; IPSA 1, PVA 1

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The study of anatomy has been a cornerstone of medical, and more latterly physiotherapy, education in higher education institutes. Centuries worth of meticulous examination via cadaveric study and surface palpation has led to the development of an accepted anatomical map, which has remained largely unchanged in the 21st Century. You will be directed to a multitude of appropriate sources, including text books, online material and computer software programmes, and encouraged to explore all potential resources in order to aid their learning.