Studying online
There are now 2 possible online modes for units:
Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.
Click on an offering mode for more details.
Unit Overview
- Description
Learning activity objectives are achieved by a combination of tutorials, self directed learning (using study guides); case based learning (using examples drawn from routine clinical laboratory practice; participation in case/slide reviews, educational meetings and journal clubs; composing written reports on laboratory test results, their interpretation and relevance). A case based approach to learning (combined with the study guides) ensures that the student focus is on the key learning objectives. The cases are selected to challenge the students' understanding of the topic and provide fertile ground for discussion between the student and the topic tutor. The knowledge acquired during the unit is assessed by submission of assignments and reports and presentation at journal clubs and in-house laboratory scientific meetings. A thorough understanding of the impact of pre-analytical factors on laboratory results and a deep knowledge of the methodology and instrumentation used for laboratory testing is expected and will be assessed by the cases, the study guide questions and informally by the tutor.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Outcomes
Students are able to (1) describe the functions of the liver and how these are disrupted by disease; (2) understand the information provided by routine and ancillary laboratory tests of liver 'function'; (3) understand the classification of the hyperbilirubinemias including the hereditary forms; (4) recognise the common patterns of liver function test (LFT) abnormalities and discuss possible causes; (5) develop an awareness of the role of history, examination, imaging, serology and biopsy in the investigation of liver diseases; (6) understand the liver abnormalities secondary to inherited conditions such as Wilson's disease, alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency etc.; (7) develop an awareness of the influence of drugs, toxins and ischemia on the liver; (8) understand the laboratory methodology and instrumentation used to provide LFT and ancillary test results; and (9) advise clinicians on pre-analytical or artefactual causes of unusual results.
- Assessment
This comprises a two-hour written examination (35 per cent), a written assignment (35 per cent) and a seminar presentation (30 per cent).
Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.
- Unit rules
- Prerequisites
- enrolment inthe Master of Laboratory Medicine
Approved quota: 12—according to enrolments in the specialisation. - Contact hours
- 5 hours
- The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
- All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
- Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
- Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.
Face to face
Predominantly face-to-face. On campus attendance required to complete this unit. May have accompanying resources online.
Online flexible
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit is asynchronous delivery, with NO requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online timetabled
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit includes some synchronous components, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online Restricted
Not available for self-enrolment. Students access this mode by contacting their student office through AskUWA. 100% Online Unit.
NO campus face-to-face attendance. All study and assessment requirements are online only. Unit includes some timetabled activities, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times. In exceptional cases (noted in the Handbook) students may be required to participate in face-to-face laboratory classes when a return to UWA’s Crawley campus becomes possible in order to be awarded a final grade.
External
No attendance or regular contact is required, and all study requirements are completed either via correspondence and/or online submission.
Off-campus
Regular attendance is not required, but student attends the institution face to face on an agreed schedule for purposes of supervision and/or instruction.
Multi-mode
Multiple modes of delivery. Unit includes a mix of online and on-campus study requirements. On campus attendance for some activities is required to complete this unit.