Advanced Surgical Practice (MSc)

How will I be taught?

A wide range of teaching and learning styles are used throughout the course, which is delivered via e-learning format through Cardiff University’s virtual learning environment (VLE) Learning Central™. The course consists of a number of compulsory modules and some of these have sub-topics where you have a choice.

A variety of media is used to deliver the content:

• Online, interactive modules
• Voice over PowerPoint presentations
• Links to other online resources
• Presentations

Module assessment and dissertation topics are chosen by the student, but have to be approved by the programme team.

Studies at MSc dissertation level will largely consist of guided independent study and research, making use of the extensive learning and research facilities available.  A project supervisor will be allocated to support and advise you on researching and writing up your specific dissertation topic.  

How will I be assessed?

The assessments have been chosen to ensure that the learning outcomes are appropriately tested and provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate they have met them.  Specific module assessment methods for each module shall be determined by the relevant Board of Studies and are detailed within the relevant Module Description.

There are a variety of formative and summative assessment methods used, such as:

• Written Assignment plans/drafts
• Written Assignments
• Multiple choice questions
• Reflective blogs
• Group work

The MSc dissertation will be wholly assessed based on the final dissertation. Expectations for the format, submission and marking of the dissertation will follow the current Assessment Regulations, supplemented where appropriate with additional requirements of the Programme/School/College and any specific requirements arising from the nature of the project undertaken.

How will I be supported?

Online support is provided via discussion boards e.g. to discuss module content, assessment ideas, assessment development, clinical issues. You are encouraged to make regular contribution through the discussion boards on Learning Central, where you will be supported by the programme team and a panel of clinical experts. You will be able to plan and reflect on your learning of individual modules and assessments, through you own personal blog (this can be extracted to include in Professional Portfolio/professional validation, re-validation). In addition, there will be regular opportunities to have online meetings with the academic staff.

All students are allocated a personal tutor, for help and support with academic and pastoral needs, who will be in regular contact to discuss progress and to provide advice and guidance as needed.  Extensive written feedback is given on all assessments to help and guide you for future assessments.

Feedback

In order to help and guide you with the planning, writing and development of assessments, formative feedback will be provided through our online “feedback studio” – specific instruction on this is offered on module 1.  Summative feedback on assessments will be delivered within the timeframe set by the University.

Students are allocated a personal supervisor during the dissertation period. They will give written feedback on dissertation drafts and provide the student with the opportunity to discuss any queries they may have.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that should acquire. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.

On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:

Have the opportunity to apply a wealth of skills and abilities to your professional setting.  In addition to greater conceptual understanding of current knowledge, issues and methods, you will practice and apply abilities in critical analysis, the application of evidence based medicine and in dealing with complex issues systematically and creatively. During studies you will use problem-solving and decision-making skills by to utilise evidence effectively and communicate important concepts to colleagues and others.  Through the research focused elements you will apply skills in literature review, critical evaluation, research design, research methodologies, data collection, data analysis and research principles.

The course aims to facilitate students to apply their knowledge to an advanced level in their area of expertise and or interest within the field of surgery. This is however, undertaken within a broader context, which allows the student to understand their level of expertise and knowledge base fits into interprofessional practice as a whole.

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will be able to do as a result of your study at Cardiff University. They will help you to understand what is expected of you. 

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Integrate knowledge of the multidimensional aspects of surgical practice from different disciplines in order to approach patient management from a holistic perspective.
• Apply an interprofessional, evidence-based knowledge of surgical practice to support any clinical and educational initiatives.
• Write evidence-based reviews that inform patient care / clinical education;

Intellectual Skills:

• Challenge traditional approaches to conceptualising surgical practice by framing clinical questions for your assessment, gathering evidence, assessing that evidence and forming recommendations.

Professional Practical Skills:

• Examine current practice and evaluated traditional methods and attitudes to surgical practice.

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Have a critical and analytical approach to surgical practice in a range of health settings.
• Identify areas for quality improvement in practice.
• Consolidate and consider extending current practice through research activities.