Outline

Overview

This unit of study develops students’ ability to integrate evidence-based practice with advanced clinical reasoning in diagnostic radiography. Students will learn to critically evaluate literature, justify diagnostic decisions using evidence and professional guidelines, and reflect on their own clinical practice. The unit combines theoretical content with practical application through written assignments that support the development of clear, evidence-informed clinical communication.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Clinical Imaging
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	MRSC5001 and MRSC5005
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	MRSC5027
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Warren Reed, warren.reed@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written work	Progress report Individual report reflecting contribution to group literature review work	20%	Week 06 Due date: 05 Apr 2026 at 23:59	1000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Class test Pen and paper class test Week 8 (held during scheduled lecture)	30%	Week 08 Due date: 21 Apr 2026 at 11:00	90 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Research analysis	Literature review Collaborative literature review demonstrating equitable group contribution	50%	Week 13 Due date: 31 May 2026 at 23:59	5000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Assessment title	Individual/ Group	Length / duration	Weight	Due date and time	Assessment type (for special consideration purposes)	Graduate qualities assessed
Progress report	Individual	1000w	20%	Sunday, Week 6	Individual Assignment	Depth of disciplinary expertise Critical thinking and problem solving Communication (written)
Literature Review	Group	5000w	50%	Sunday, Week 13	Group work - Assignment	Depth of disciplinary expertise Critical thinking and problem solving Communication (written) Information/digital literacy Inventiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness An integrated professional, ethical and professional identity.
Class Test	Individual	90mins	30%	Monday, Week 8	Class test	Depth of disciplinary expertise Critical thinking and problem solving Communication (written)
Total			100%

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard.
Distinction	75 - 84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard.
Credit	65 - 74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard.
Pass	50 - 64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

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.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

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	Introduction to unit of study and Literature reviews	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Library modules: Database searching	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
Week 02	Clinical reasoning and evidence based practice	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Tutorial 1. Identifying the clinical question and database searching	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 03	Systematic Review and clinical decision analysis	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Independent group work	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
Week 04	Diagnosis	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Tutorial 2. Data assessment and extraction	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Prognosis	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Independent group work	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
Week 06	Intervention (therapy)	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Tutorial 3. Literature synthesis	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 07	Qualitative (attitudes and experiences)	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Independent group work	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
Week 08	Class test	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Tutorial 4. Writing	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 09	Research dissemination methods & writing for publication	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Independent group work	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
Week 10	Overview and Q&A	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and workload
This unit of study conforms to the University of Sydney Academic Board policy on student workload. For a 6 credit point unit, students should expect to undertake an average of 9–12 hours of learning activities per week across the semester, including scheduled classes and independent study.

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

All required readings for this unit are available through the Library eReserve on Canvas.

Hoffmann, T., Bennett, S., & Del Mar, C. Evidence-based practice across the health professions (3rd or 4th ed.). Elsevier.

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. Discuss the fundamentals of evidence based practice, and how research studies (including literature reviews) contribute to the medical imaging profession
LO2. Collaborate in a small group to identify current clinical challenges (or a question), and identify information and appropriate methods to collect and assess evidence required to respond to the clinical challenge (or question).
LO3. Understand research methods, in order to interpret findings in healthcare research articles.
LO4. Construct evidence-based arguments for a chosen topic, and present them in written form (a literature review), suitable for a MIS professional audience, which follows the JMRS guidelines for publication

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

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images. 1.3.a. Understand the different imaging and treatment pathways in medical radiation practice. 1.3.b. Understand the modalities and equipment used in the different imaging and treatment pathways across medical radiation practice. 1.3.c. Understand use of CT, MRI and PET in the localisation of a range of cancer sites, patient/client presentations and related planning procedures. Domain 2.3.a. Make appropriate professional decisions about the care of patients. Domain 4.1.a. Identify the challenge or question and the information that is needed to respond. Domain 4.1.b. Find, critically appraise, interpret and apply best available research evidence to inform clinical reasoning and professional decision-making. Domain 4.1.c. Provide evidence-informed patient/client-centred care by carefully considering the purpose of the proposed examination/treatment, reviewing existing protocols and methods, reflecting on clinical challenges or experiences and integrating knowledge and findings into practice. Domain 4.1.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry. Domain 4.2.c. Seek input from others to confirm learning needs of self and others to enhance the quality of patient/client care. Domain 4.2.d. Plan and implement steps to address professional learning and development needs. National Safety and Quality Health Service - 1. Clinical Governance Standard 6. Communicating for Safety Standard
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images. 1.3.a. Understand the different imaging and treatment pathways in medical radiation practice. 1.3.b. Understand the modalities and equipment used in the different imaging and treatment pathways across medical radiation practice. 1.3.c. Understand use of CT, MRI and PET in the localisation of a range of cancer sites, patient/client presentations and related planning procedures. Domain 4.1.a. Identify the challenge or question and the information that is needed to respond. Domain 4.1.b. Find, critically appraise, interpret and apply best available research evidence to inform clinical reasoning and professional decision-making. Domain 4.1.c. Provide evidence-informed patient/client-centred care by carefully considering the purpose of the proposed examination/treatment, reviewing existing protocols and methods, reflecting on clinical challenges or experiences and integrating knowledge and findings into practice. Domain 4.1.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry. National Safety and Quality Health Service - 1. Clinical Governance Standard 6. Communicating for Safety Standard
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.3.a. Understand the different imaging and treatment pathways in medical radiation practice. 1.3.b. Understand the modalities and equipment used in the different imaging and treatment pathways across medical radiation practice. 1.3.c. Understand use of CT, MRI and PET in the localisation of a range of cancer sites, patient/client presentations and related planning procedures. Domain 4.1.b. Find, critically appraise, interpret and apply best available research evidence to inform clinical reasoning and professional decision-making. Domain 4.1.c. Provide evidence-informed patient/client-centred care by carefully considering the purpose of the proposed examination/treatment, reviewing existing protocols and methods, reflecting on clinical challenges or experiences and integrating knowledge and findings into practice. Domain 4.1.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry. National Safety and Quality Health Service - 1. Clinical Governance Standard
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images. 1.10.c. Apply knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy, embryology, pathophysiology, haemodynamic and sonographic appearances of normal and abnormal anatomy. 1.3.a. Understand the different imaging and treatment pathways in medical radiation practice. 1.3.b. Understand the modalities and equipment used in the different imaging and treatment pathways across medical radiation practice. 1.3.c. Understand use of CT, MRI and PET in the localisation of a range of cancer sites, patient/client presentations and related planning procedures. Domain 4.1.c. Provide evidence-informed patient/client-centred care by carefully considering the purpose of the proposed examination/treatment, reviewing existing protocols and methods, reflecting on clinical challenges or experiences and integrating knowledge and findings into practice. Domain 4.1.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry. National Safety and Quality Health Service - 1. Clinical Governance Standard 6. Communicating for Safety Standard

National Safety and Quality Health Service -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1		Clinical Governance Standard
6		Communicating for Safety Standard

Responding to student feedback

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

In response to student feedback, the literature review submission has been scheduled for Week 13 to allow sufficient time for synthesis and writing. Structured tutorials and guided self-directed activities have also been embedded throughout the semester to support progressive development of the assessment task.

Additional information

Student Administration Manual on the Faculty of Health Sciences

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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)

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

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

MRSC5049: Advanced Clinical Reasoning in MIS

Semester 1, 2026 [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)

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

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links