Educational aims
The philosophy and values espoused in this Foundation degree derives from the high academic and pedagogic values of The Open University, and the profession-specific standards of diligence and care promoted by the College of Operating Department Practitioners, the College of Paramedics, the Institute of Biomedical Sciences and the Health Professions Council, all leading to safe and effective practice.
By the end of this qualification you should be able to meet the learning outcomes listed below and developed in each module.
In every practice placement, and elsewhere, you should conform to accepted behavioural standards. As a professional health practitioner you must conduct yourself in accordance with the standards of professional behaviour stipulated by the Health Professions Council (HPC). These standards can be found, and are explained, on the HPC website
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
On completion of this degree, you will be able to:
- show that you know and understand the key terminology, nomenclature, classification systems, conventions and units that are central to the Health Sciences
- describe the structure and function of major systems and organs in the human body, and their association with health, disease, disorder, dysfunction and pathology
- discuss ways in which an individual’s psychological state can impact on their physical health
- discuss the theoretical basis of diagnosis and intervention in defined medical conditions
- use appropriate methods to interpret and analyse scientific data and information in defined contexts within the Health Sciences.
Cognitive skills
On completion of this degree, you will be able to:
- use and apply knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to the Health Sciences in defined contexts
- apply such scientific knowledge and understanding to address familiar and unfamiliar examples
- analyse, interpret, synthesise and summarise simple scientific data and information appropriately
- develop the ability to recognise different lines of evidence and appreciate the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of current knowledge in defined areas of the Health Sciences
- begin to address some of the key social, psychological and ethical issues surrounding Health Sciences topics.
Practical and/or professional skills
On completion of this degree, you will be able to:
- describe your own role within the context of your profession and organisation
- describe and accurately perform a range of procedures relevant to your job
- use your skills in interpreting data derived from health-related investigations with respect to current subject knowledge
- apply your knowledge and understanding to inform and implement safe working practice and identify risks
- describe and implement the procedures for keeping client/patient records with due regard for confidentiality and explain the need for professional standards when dealing with colleagues and members of the public.
Key skills
On completion of this degree, you will be able to:
- locate, receive and respond to a variety of information sources (e.g. textual, numerical, graphical and computer-based) in defined contexts
- apply number skills to undertake calculations appropriate for your working practice
- communicate scientific information accurately and effectively using written, visual and numerical forms in a style that suits purpose and audience
- prepare, process, present and interpret data in defined ways using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques
- use a range of study skills appropriate to degree-level study and apply them to improve your own learning
- use your ICT skills as appropriate to locate online information sources, enhance your own learning, carry out simple data analysis, and communicate and discuss scientific information with others
- maintain your own personal development portfolio and reflective diary
- manage your own learning, organise your own time, and begin to work independently in a way appropriate for continuing personal and professional development.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods
Knowledge and understanding of paramedic science is developed through the main teaching materials and in-text questions, tasks and activities to support your learning. The main teaching material is offered through supported open learning modules with associated material, including module reading texts, web-based materials, audio-visual material and directed reading. Summative assessment is mainly by electronically submitted tutor-marked assignments (eTMAs), interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs) and end-of-module reports. Associate lecturers support your development across all learning outcomes through tutorials, online activities, written feedback on assignments and online/telephone support.
Cognitive skills are assessed by module assignments. These will allow you to demonstrate your ability to structure a clear and reasoned argument, and to analyse module issues. Work-based learning will offer you the opportunity to demonstrate independent thinking skills; to demonstrate your understanding of theoretical concepts and the underpinning principles for working in paramedic science; to show evidence of reflective practice; and to use appropriate methods of enquiry.
Key skills are the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework and the Health Professions Council’s standards of proficiency, and are promoted within learning materials and as part of continuous assessment. Assessment criteria for eTMAs require you to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and appropriately in writing. Learning skills focusing on identifying strengths and weaknesses, setting priorities and targets, and reviewing and reflecting are a feature of personal development planning, the general approach to key skills and of the work-based learning components. Working with others will be fostered through work-based projects, as well as case studies and assessments.
Professional skills are developed through module work, including evidence-based project work. This is part of an increased awareness and understanding of practice in planning, delivery and evaluation of work activities. Reflection on practice will be central to this approach. The assessment of practice skills is through work-based scenarios and is signed of by your work-based mentor.