Unit Description

In this integrated unit of Evidence-Based Practice and Special Topics in Clinical Aesthetics, you will learn about evidence-based practice and its origins in clinical medicine. You will explore key concepts and terminology used, in particular the concept of meta-analysis, a research method by which clinicians may more effectively analyse and evaluate large amounts of research and research data in order to reach appropriate clinical decisions.

You are introduced to advanced health research and evaluation skills, citation standards, literature review techniques, ethics applications in research, preparation and defence of the thesis protocols and skills in thesis writing. This unit aims to give you the opportunity to develop your critical thinking by studying the relevant literature and ability to develop a research program.

This unit’s information is intended to scaffold and frame your special topic in clinical aesthetics.

* Marking of assessments will be commensurate with a double unit.
* Time management will be critical to complete this double unit.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this unit, however the undertaking of HCM 201 Critical Thinking and Research Skills is fundamental to understanding the content of this unit.

Learning Outcomes

HBS 302

On completion of this unit the student will be able to:

• Prepare and advise on advanced techniques and treatment protocols
• Demonstrate advanced ability to assess and use various research methodologies
• Examine constraints and concerns associated with research preparation and presentation
• Demonstrate ability to conduct in-depth academic research and a facility to employ essential academic skills including correct use of citations and the ability to conduct literature reviews
• Organise and implement effective literature review techniques and data analysis
• Evaluate and discuss the core  components of academic research, including the role of ethics
• Describe and demonstrate how research reports and papers are written and presented with critical appraisal

HCM 302

On completion of this unit the student will be able to:

• Define evidence-based practice and describe its history and genesis in modern medicine
• Demonstrate an understanding of key concepts and terminology used in evidence-based practice, including the concept of meta-analysis
• Discuss in the light of contemporary research and practice the advantages and criticisms of EBP
• Critically evaluate and assess a number of different approaches to EBP
• Describe and critically evaluate how EBP might be successfully integrated with clinical practice

Graduate Attributes (GA)

In addition to the unit-specific learning outcomes listed above, the following graduate attributes are taught, developed and assessed in varying degrees within this unit:

• Knowledge of applied health science theory and practice
• Knowledge of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities within healthcare delivery systems
• The ability to communicate effectively with clients, peers and the wider community
• The ability to demonstrate in-depth competence in their area(s) of specialisation
• The ability to formulate and apply therapeutic interventions in their area(s) of specialisation
• The capacity to lead, manage and/or work effectively with multi-disciplinary and culturally diverse teams
• Awareness of professional and ethical responsibilities and a commitment to ongoing professional development and life-long learning.