Outline

Overview

This unit focuses on the development of understanding and skills relating to assessment in Accredited Exercise Physiology practice. This includes measurement tools/techniques for assessing exercise capacity and clinical and functional status for application in target pathology domains. Content is delivered in the broader context of case management in the healthcare system framework. This includes understanding of non-AEP assessment (such as medicines information), and the development of core clinical skills such as clinical communication, reporting, referral and professional conduct.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Movement Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	EXSS5103
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Nathan Johnson, nathan.johnson@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Amanda Semaan, amanda.semaan@sydney.edu.au
	Daniel Hackett, daniel.hackett@sydney.edu.au
	Yorgi Mavrou, yorgi.mavros@sydney.edu.au
	Chloe Trevor, chloe.trevor@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length
Supervised test ?	ECG Practical and Theory Skills based evaluation	30%	Week 07 Due date: 10 Apr 2025 at 12:30	1 hour
Outcomes assessed:
Skills-based evaluation	Client Interview and Practical Skills Assessment Skills based evaluation	45%	Week 11	60 mins
Outcomes assessed:
Skills-based evaluation	Case Management / Documentation Assessment Task Skills based evaluation	25%	Week 12 Due date: 23 May 2025 at 23:59	Clinical Record: 2 pg Referral: 1 page
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = AI allowed ?

Assessment summary

ECG Assessment: Canvas skills-based task involving set-up of 12-lead ECG with real client. Interpretation and course of action for various ECG anomalies.

Client Interview and Practical Skills: The first part of this task will assess your ability to conduct a client interview. You will be assessed on your interview structure, professionalism, ethical conduct and communication and questioning skills with a real client. The second part involves the selection and conduct of a suite of exercise assessments with your client.

Case Management/Documentation Task: This task will require you to submit clinical documentation from your Client Interview and Practical Skills Assessment. You will also be required to make a clinical referral to another health care professional for your client based on your Client Interview and Practical Skills Assessment.

Details about permitted AI tools for assessment tasks, where applicable, can be accessed on the EXSS5102 Canvas site.

Assessment criteria

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Exceptional knowledge of exercise physiology assessments
Distinction	75 - 84	High level of knowledge of exercise physiology assessments
Credit	65 - 74	Good level of knowledge of exercise physiology assessments
Pass	50 - 64	Basic level of knowledge of exercise physiology assessments
Fail	0 - 49	Learning outcomes of the unit are not met to a satisfactory standard. There is a risk of harm to patients with the lack of knowledge and skill demonstrated

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Except for supervised exams or in-semester tests, you may use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessments unless expressly prohibited by your unit coordinator.

For exams and in-semester tests, the use of AI and automated writing tools is not allowed unless expressly permitted in the assessment instructions.

The icons in the assessment table above indicate whether AI is allowed – whether full AI, or only some AI (the latter is referred to as “AI restricted”). If no icon is shown, AI use is not permitted at all for the task. Refer to Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks for this unit.

Your final submission must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of automated writing tools or generative AI, and any material generated that you include in your final submission must be properly referenced. You may be required to submit generative AI inputs and outputs that you used during your assessment process, or drafts of your original work. Inappropriate use of generative AI is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

The Current Students website provides information on artificial intelligence in assessments. For help on how to correctly acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the  AI in Education Canvas site.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

The Assessment Procedures 2011 provide that any written work submitted after 11:59pm on the due date will be penalised by 5% of the maximum awardable mark for each calendar day after the due date. If the assessment is submitted more than ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded. However, a unit of study may prohibit late submission or exclude late penalties only if expressly stated below.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Health Screening and Risk Assessment: risk assessment and stratification tools; implementation; assessments within the pre-screening including anthropometry; cardiometabolic disease identification/diagnosis, prevalence and burden.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Health Screening: implementing a pre-exercise screen including anthropometry, identification of overweight/obesity, cardiovascular disease risk; point of care blood testing, referring onwards, monitoring and professional practice.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 02	Assessment of Aerobic Fitness: assessment choice, selection and suitability with respect to referral, client, Rx. What and Why: battery of standard aerobic tests (submaximal and maximal); laboratory vs. field issues; modality, validity and reliability. First Aid/CPR including formulation of management strategies and reporting.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Implementing a submaximal aerobic exercise assessment: demonstrate functional and “submaximal” aerobic exercise tests, including instruction, monitoring and feedback, using different modalities and equipment.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 03	Assessment of Aerobic Fitness: Critical evaluation and assumptions of tests, pre-assessment preparation (equipment & client including medications) and implementation; interpretation and application of assessment data, normative data etc.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	"Maximal aerobic exercise assessment including '4-in-a-minute'": demonstrate aerobic exercise tests, including instruction, timely and effective monitoring and feedback, using different equipment. Including responses and management strategies for emergency and first aid, and reporting.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 04	Assessment of Muscular Fitness: battery of standard muscular fitness tests including flexibility and resistance exercise using machine, free weight and body weight; relevance/appropriateness for clinical situations; validity and reliability; critical evaluation and assumptions of tests, pre-assessment preparation (equipment & client including medications) and implementation; interpretation and application of assessment data.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Implementing a resistance exercise assessment: demonstrate functional (e.g. sit-to-stand) and maximal muscular fitness exercise tests, including instruction, monitoring and feedback, using different modalities and equipment.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Cardiovascular Disease Assessment (ECG): Fundamental ECG: depolarisation, repolarisation, representation of ECG to cardiac cycle, normal ECG, abnormal rate and rhythms and appropriate course of action.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	ECG 1: Identifying the relationship between the ECG trace and the cardiac cycle. Interpretation of single lead ECG abnormalities including calculation of rate and identifying common arrhythmias and the appropriate course of action.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	Cardiovascular Disease Assessment (ECG): 12-lead ECG: myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, left and right axis deviation, left and right bundle branch block, Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, electrolyte disturbances and digitalis toxicity and appropriate course of action.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	ECG 2: Interpretation of 12-lead ECG abnormalities including myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, left and right axis deviation, left and right bundle branch block and appropriate course of action.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 07	Client History, Communication and Case Management: taking a client history; attributes of communication essential for a health care professional (verbal, non-verbal, trust, rapport, empathy, active listening & feedback)	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Client History, Communication and Case Management: written communication including documentation (SOAP notes) & client communication, inter-professional communication and referrals, academic honesty, record keeping.	Independent study (2 hr)
Week 09	Advanced Communication/Cultural Competency: identify one’s own culture (beyond ethnicity), ensure adequate preparation and communication skills to work with patients in a way that recognises and respects diversity; role of culture in social determinants of health; client centred language and terminology for culturally safe practice	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Client History & Communication: verbal and nonverbal communication via reviewing & interpreting a medical record, SOAP note writing, medical abbreviations, medical terminology	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 10	Advanced Communication/Cultural Competency: identify one’s own culture (beyond ethnicity), ensure adequate preparation and communication skills to work with patients in a way that recognises and respects diversity; role of culture in social determinants of health; client centred language and terminology for culturally safe practice	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Open Laboratory/Clinic Access: supervised self-directed implementation of client interview and exercise assessments, including taking a client history and aerobic and, muscular fitness assessment.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 12	Assessment 2: feedback	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Assessment 2: follow-up	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 13	Assessment 2: feedback (TBA)	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance at practical and tutorial classes is not compulsory in 2025 due to covid-19 and compliance with RPAH requirements. Attendance is strongly recommended for all practical and tutorial work where appropriate.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Thompson, W.R. (Ed.). ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, Philadelphia.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Demonstrate professional conduct and practice in case management and clinical reporting which is consistent with the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, in a multidisciplinary care environment.
LO2. Apply and use comprehensive client pre-exercise evaluation including risk screening and safety management, and client history (including medications, medical and allied health treatments), for the implementation of safe physical activity assessments and interventions for people across the AEP cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, pulmonary and kidney domains.
LO3. Demonstrate the ability to select and implement measurement tools/techniques and guidelines for the assessment of clients’ clinical and functional status and safe delivery of physical activity interventions.
LO4. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of the pathophysiological bases for a broad range of conditions, to allow safe and effective engagement in physical activity in healthy and clinical populations, notably for people across the AEP cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, pulmonary and kidney domains.
LO5. Recognise and respond appropriately to adverse signs and symptoms at rest, during and post exercise.
LO6. Conduct a 12-lead ECG, and demonstrate the ability to identify arrhythmias.
LO7. Use effective and appropriate communication, including verbal and written with clients, referrer and other relevant stakeholders to deliver safe and effective client-centred care. This includes the reporting of assessment outcomes, changes in clinical status, and referrals.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.2.1		Practise with integrity within the scope of practice for an AEP, the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, and jurisdictional Codes of Conduct.
1.2.2		Practise in accordance with ethically relevant legislation, regulations, and standards that apply to AEPs including privacy, confidentiality, data security, informed consent, and record-keeping.
1.2.3		Differentiate and select verbal and non-verbal communication strategies that are contextually appropriate, timely, accessible, and respectful to clients, population groups, and relevant others.
1.2.4		Develop effective, concise, respectful, and informative clinical documentation, including case notes and reports, and apply appropriate record keeping practices.
1.2.5		Practise in a culturally safe, inclusive, sensitive, respectful, and responsive way and according to person-centred care principles.
1.2.6		Practise collaboratively and effectively with other professionals, including seeking feedback and input to inform decision-making, delegating tasks, and referring to other professionals and services where appropriate.
1.2.7		Develop reflective practices through self-reflection, seeking and engaging with feedback from colleagues and clients, critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes, and engaging in ongoing learning.
2.2.1		Integrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and other determinants of health and function and apply these to inform safe and effective movement, physical activity, and exercise-based interventions for individuals and population groups throughout all stages of their life.
2.2.3		Evaluate physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise for clients across the full health spectrum.
3.2.1		Formulate appropriate screening processes to evaluate and stratify risk for participation in assessments and interventions, including consideration of appropriate service modalities for clients.
3.2.2		Formulate safe, effective, and culturally sensitive assessments to collect relevant information, social and cultural determinants of health, client history, and client needs, preferences, barriers, facilitators, and goals.
3.2.3		Formulate appropriate assessments and outcome measures relevant to treatment and client goals, and evaluate health status, function, capacity, and progress, to inform clinical reasoning and to monitor the delivery and outcomes of interventions.
3.2.4		Distinguish, record, report, and appropriately action changing risk factors and adverse signs and symptoms that may arise before, during, and after assessments and interventions.
3.2.5		Evaluate and record assessment outcomes in a timely and accurate manner to inform practice and communicate outcomes and relevance to goals effectively to clients and relevant others.
3.2.7		Distinguish when client needs are outside of scope or competence and take appropriate, timely actions including engaging effectively with other professionals.
3.2.8		Choose and use relevant technology and equipment efficiently, effectively, and safely.
4.2.3		Formulate and apply strategies to manage risks, evaluate progress, and adapt recommendations and interventions in partnership with clients based on needs and measured outcomes.
4.2.7		Communicate effectively and respectfully with clients and relevant others about progress and outcomes of interventions, including appropriate reporting.

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Feedback from last year has been incorporated to modify some lecture and tutorial content. In 2025 where possible Marking criteria / rubrics will be released as early as possible to know what is expected and to start working on it. Feedback also suggested that students prefer pre-recorded lecture material where possible and hands-on when they get on campus - which will be the approach for 2025. Also, with the stacked assessment load after mid-semester break students asked if the 5102 case documentation could be due at end wk 13, but given this may create more stress to "leave it at wk 12 but just have leeway and if possible check-in with the student cohort at the time" and see if it needs to be delayed a bit. Students reported benefits from being thrown into the deep end early in the Tutorials - which was done by an individual "4-in-1-minute" task in week 3. This will be done again with incentives for those who do it (most) and disincentives considered for those who avoid e.g. timetabled first for the practical assessment.

Additional information

All assessment tasks are compulsory and special consideration is required for non-submission/non-attendance of any task. Failure to complete any assessment task will lead to an absent fail (AF) result.

Work, health and safety

WHS Compliance Checklist must be completed in Week 1

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

EXSS5102: Assessment and the Exercise Physiologist

Semester 1, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links