Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives In this subject students are expected to develop their own learning objectives as well as a plan for fulfilling these objectives in consultation with nursing academic staff; increase theoretical knowledge of the area through individual learning contracts; perform detailed clinical assessment of clients; plan and implement care at a high level of competence; investigate problems implicit in the area; incorporate current research findings in the delivery of care; identify the nursing theoretical approach to care delivery.
Synopsis This subject allows a student to explore an area of special interest related to clinical nursing practice. It promotes students' responsibility for their own learning by exercising choice, developing objectives and negotiating to fulfil these objectives in consultation with nursing academic staff. Students are required to be self-directed in their learning, to prepare a learning contract to cover both theoretical and clinical components of the subject. A mentor will be provided for each student from among nursing academic staff. Where possible, the student will be paired with a preceptor in the clinical setting who is an expert in the field to be studied.
Assessment Learning contract-learning theory: 10% + Assignment (total 6000 words): 80% + Clinical care plan: 10% + Clinical experience - a high standard of professional participation is required: pass/fail + Successful completion of the subject requires a pass in both the theoretical and clinical components