University of Lincoln

MSc Contemporary Physiotherapy Practice

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Dissertation (Core)

The National Health Service, social care sector, and public services place a high value on research-informed practice. The health and care workforce needs to consist of change agents, informed entrepreneurs, creative, engaged, and influential clinical leaders, skilled in research design and investigation. Conducting research enables students to explore and develop their professional practice, contributing to and extending the knowledge in their sphere of practice.

This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to understand how research can directly inform practice and provides the opportunity to enhance patient care through the direct experience of completing a research project.

The module is designed to support the development of research skills commensurate with Master's level study and promote the development of a high standard of academic writing suitable for publication and dissemination. Students can undertake a focused exploration of an area of professional interest, applying their understanding of the research process to design and conduct a research project or service investigation relating to their area of professional practice.

Leadership in Physiotherapy (Core)

The module aims to develop student's knowledge and understanding of leadership in the context of contemporary clinical practice. A range of leadership topics will include legal, ethical, and professional issues in Physiotherapy and how culture, diversity, and values can impact clinical practice. In addition, students will learn the importance of collaborative working and interpersonal skills in the context of leadership. Students will also learn theories and models of leadership, continued professional development, and apply critical reflection to self-assess and enhance their own leadership capabilities. The aim of this will be to equip students with the ability to critique their clinical practice and generate methods of improvement at an individual, departmental, and professional level. The knowledge and skills gained from this module will be utilized in future clinical practice to support learners to contribute to transformational change through their practice as a Physiotherapist.

Students are expected to autonomously write up the findings of the project, employing a high standard of academic writing suitable for publication and dissemination.

Musculoskeletal Clinical Reasoning (Core)

This module aims to develop student's knowledge and skills in assessing patients in a comprehensive and inclusive manner. Students can develop a professional and patient-centered approach to assessing patients in order to arrive at a reasoned and evidence-informed clinical impression. Clinical reasoning and decision-making theory and application are covered relative to assessment and diagnosis/hypothesis. A range of approaches to patient assessment and documentation will be explored, with a focus on the role of effective communication as a key skill in modern physiotherapy practice. Students can also consider the role of wider biopsychosocial aspects in patient presentations and the assessment process.

Musculoskeletal Interventions (Core)

This module explores a range of interventions used within the physiotherapy profession to treat, educate, support, and enable patients. These interventions include the therapeutic use of physical activity and exercise, manual therapy techniques, electrotherapeutic modalities, and techniques and equipment to facilitate functional human movement. Students can also reflect and critically evaluate their knowledge and skills to adapt techniques to meet individual needs and specialist populations to promote wellness, lifestyle change, and self-management. This module is designed to build on student's clinical reasoning and decision-making skills for their clinical practice.

Physiotherapy Science & Practice (Core)

This module aims to promote the development of clinically applied knowledge in health and social science relevant to physiotherapy practice. Students can develop and apply biological, physical, psychological, and sociological sciences in the physiotherapy context. Learning through a series of theoretical and practical teaching sessions, students can benefit from inquiry-based learning activities to align scientific knowledge with physiotherapy practice. This knowledge is the foundation for developing a holistic approach to patient care.

Research Methods - Taught (Core)

The module aims to increase students' understanding of research methods, enabling deeper evaluation and use of research findings in contemporary practice. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to develop a research proposal that can be carried on to a dissertation.

How You Study

Scheduled learning activities may include lectures, workshops, and practical sessions, which accompany independent learning and development in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

In the first year of study, modules include Leadership in Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy Science and Practice, Musculoskeletal Clinical Reasoning, Musculoskeletal Interventions, and Research Methods. These are designed for students to develop evidence-based knowledge and skills for clinical and research practice to work towards the Dissertation project.

In the second year, students can apply their skills and knowledge to create and manage a research project in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Students will also have the opportunity to disseminate their research findings through different methods including journal publication, a conference presentation, or poster production and delivery.

How You Are Assessed

Students' knowledge and skills will be assessed through a broad range of methods including practical assessments, written assignments, and presentations.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to you promptly.

How You Study

Scheduled learning activities may include lectures, workshops, and practical sessions, which accompany independent learning and development in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

In the first year of study, modules include Leadership in Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy Science and Practice, Musculoskeletal Clinical Reasoning, Musculoskeletal Interventions, and Research Methods. These are designed for students to develop evidence-based knowledge and skills for clinical and research practice to work towards the Dissertation project.

In the second year, students can apply their skills and knowledge to create and manage a research project in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Students will also have the opportunity to disseminate their research findings through different methods including journal publication, a conference presentation, or poster production and delivery.