AC7100 - Genomics, Pathology and Complexities of Care

What will I learn on this module?

The genomics, pathology and complexities of care module will engage with both historical and contemporary debates around the care of patients with both common and less common pathologies. This module will aim to explore human cellular function, identifying the role genes play in both typical physiological function and atypical physiological processes. Through exploration of cellular function, you will be guided through directed study of the human body systems, which will allow a structured approach to learning. Your learning will be guided towards pathologies which are commonly seen in the UK population, but you will also be given the opportunity to discuss those which occur less frequently.



A group of specialist lecturers will identify and prepare topics within this module will be primarily focussed around the perioperative environment, allowing some in depth discussion to take place around the identified pathologies. The chosen pathological topics will aim to catalyse debate of the complexities associated to the disease process in question, and the current treatment regime. This will allow a critical analysis of international, national and local guidelines, while offering the opportunity to identify areas for further learning activity. Your teaching team will work closely with you to identify topics of personal or professional interest which can then be focussed towards your summative assessment.

How will I learn on this module?

The module provides a range of learning and teaching opportunities including face to face and online lectures, workshops, case-based discussion, and e-learning via Blackboard Ultra. Blackboard Ultra is the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) system used within the University and supports learning away from the classroom. It will be available to you throughout the module and your programme of study. Blackboard Ultra provides access to a range of module materials including e-learning packages and materials available for you to consider in advance of, or as part of attending a taught session (flipped classroom). Using Blackboard Ultra will improve your technological skills enabling flexible, enquiry-based learning and opportunity to undertake learning in your own time. This teaching and learning strategy forms part of the University blended learning approach and will allow a degree of flexibility in your educational pursuit.



During this module, there may be the opportunity to engage with the university’s state of the art Clinical Skills Centre to help you develop or refresh your practical skills through case-based discussion activities. Interactive lectures will be used to identify the appropriate genomic, genetic and pathological points related to perioperative care, offering the provision of technology enhanced feedback software. During subsequent seminar sessions, you will have the opportunity to engage with lecturer facilitated discussion around the key areas identified within your lectures, sharing your professional experiences with the module group. There is opportunity for you to reflect and review your progress on the module with the module team, with peers and with the module leader (ML).

How will I be supported academically on this module?

A Module Leader (ML) will be available to you for the duration of the module and will have the same professional background as you. You will have “one to one” or group tutorial support for your academic assessment. Your ML will be available to review and explore your progress, having both an academic and student welfare role. Your ML can support your academic learning journey referring you to additional services if needed.



There are comprehensive Skills Plus online learning materials available online within the library that provide you with a range of information about academic study. Peer support is available from your student group and there are opportunities for discussion and sharing learning experiences with your peers in the classroom and using Blackboard Ultra. Blackboard Ultra will support your leaning away from the classroom and it will be available to you throughout the programme. It will contain a number of resources such as eLearning packages and presentations to support your learning and development on the module giving you quick access to module information so you can stay updated. The opportunity to draw on others i.e., peer experiences, presents a positive learning opportunity for students. There are a range of central Student Support and Wellbeing Services “Student Central” operating from Northumbria University Library is on the ground floor at Coach Lane Campus (East). Student Central operating from City Campus (West) is also located in the library on the ground floor. This is available to support you around university academic processes for example, registering a change of circumstances, counselling and mental health support or disability and dyslexia support. The library is open outside of formal scheduled teaching hours and there are student hub areas with access to technology available at Coach Lane and City Campus. Your clinical practice areas may also have active library facilities that you can use.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

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.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:



Identify principle components and organelles within eukaryotic cells, explaining the key concepts and identifying current research describing their structure and function

Evaluate the key principles of genetic inheritance in typical and atypical physiology, while critically evaluating the contemporary issues in the role of genomics in treatment options and regimes



Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:



Using contemporary evidence, critically evaluate and debate the professional principles and ethical considerations related to the assessment and interventions of pathophysiological processes

Interpret common pathologies and critically evaluate their relevance to your professional environment



Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

Identify and critically evaluate current guidelines, policy, evidence and ethical considerations related to your professional role and critically reflect upon the role of the multi-disciplinary team within the NHS where appropriate

How will I be assessed?

Formative: Mid-module group discussion of potential summative assessment topics. This can undergo staff/student constructive feedback prior to summative assessment





Summative:



1,000 word critically reflective account, evaluating the relationship between guidelines, policy and research around your chosen pathology and clinical practice

(MLO 1 – 5) (30% weighting)



20-minute pre-recorded PowerPoint presentation (using Panopto as a recording software). This will be on a single chosen pathology related to your professional practice environment, identifying a genetic component (if applicable), ethical considerations and the treatment options/regimes required related to guidelines. A non-exhaustive list of pathology ideas will be provided. (MLO 1 – 5) (70% weighting)

Pre-requisite(s)

To undertake this module you must hold a valid current professional registration” (i.e.: NMC / GMC / HCPC)

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module offers an insight into the world of cellular function and relates this function to pathological process. Understanding the role of cellular activity is the key to unlocking the often-complex world of human physiology and disease, which we feel often undergirds the complexities of interprofessional decision making related to care decisions. Through facilitation of research active educators in a technology enhanced learning environment, you will have the opportunity to engage your interest and allow you to discuss and debate topics of personal and professional interest. The topics we discuss will primarily be related to perioperative practice, however, the complexities of contemporary treatment regimens will be explored.



Northumbria University has established itself at the forefront of initiatives, working closely with our partners to develop the potential of health professionals. We hope that this module will assist you in your professional development and be a component part of achieving your personal education goals.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 1 year Part Time

Department Nursing, Midwifery & Health

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025 or January 2026

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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