| Unit name | Evidence Based Neuropsychology |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PSYCM0028 |
| Credit points | 15 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52) |
| Unit director | Professor. Bunnage |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Psychological Science |
| Faculty | Faculty of Life Sciences |
This unit requires students to write three evidence based reviews of the literature linking theoretical issues to applications in neuropsychological practice and/or critically appraising an aspect of neuropsychological practice on the basis of recent evidence. The core of the review will focus upon a specific published neuropsychological paper or published assessment technique. The three written reviews must outline the target publication but must also include a thorough critical analysis which draws additional theory and evidence from sources beyond the content of the focus article. A second course requirement is that students produce oral presentations (20 minute duration) of the content of their particular written review.
Titles for each presentation will be suggested by students on the basis of their own experience of practical challenges and the literature which connects with these challenges. However, titles and focus papers must receive prior approval by the unit coordinator. Candidates will be expected to address aspects of assessment and treatment across their choice of titles.
Aims:
1. The central aim is to assist in the development of (1) critical appraisal skills and evidence-based practice within clinical neuropsychology, (2) the development of the capacity for continued self-directed professional development, (3) the development of academic and professional writing skills. Assessment includes the requirement to write three articles which must be written in American Psychological Association (APA) style in a form that is compatible with a published practitioner review or commentary (APA style is a consistent requirement of all undergraduate psychology within Bristol University). It is intended that all articles be combined, over years, into the formation of a web-based reference document available to all those taking neuropsychology courses within the department of experimental psychology. Each paper has a minimum word limit of 2000 words and a maximum of 3500 words. This requires students to develop skills in developing areas or challenging aspects of their own clinical practice. Students will also be required to provide an oral presentation of each article, and this presentation may be attended by all students taking neuropsychology courses within the department of experimental psychology and will also be attended by NHS practitioners and qualified clinical neuropsychologists. It is a course requirement that students taking the Clinical Diploma attend presentations given by their fellow course members.
1. The course coordinator will provide two initial lectures (each of 1 hour duration) in which students will be given guidance about critical appraisal of healthcare evidence as applied to neuropsychology.
2. Students will have opportunities to attend at least 10 presentations of critical appraisals undertaken by qualified clinical neuropsychologists at North Bristol NHS Trust. Sessions will alternate between addressing rehabilitation and treatment issues.
3. Self-directed learning and independent work will be required utilising existing NHS and academic resources providing guidance on evidence-based healthcare. (although the course coordinator is available for consultation on matters of style and format (rather than substance).
Three coursework: articles 2000-3500 words (66% mark) and three oral presentations (33% mark). Word limit for coursework varies because there may be considerable variation in the complexity and content of focus articles. Part of the awarded mark will include an assessment of whether the word limit is appropriate to the selected topic.
Site accompanying Sackett et al., 2000: http://www.cebm.utoronto.ca/
" http://www.update-software.com/ccweb/cochrane/whatcdsr.htm#BRA " http://www.update-software.com/ccweb/cochrane/revabstr/g170index.htm
