Unit outline_

MRTY4043: Professional Capstone

Semester 2b, 2025 [Block mode] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study is a core subject for the pass pathway of the Bachelor of Applied Science (Diagnostic Radiography. It is designed to enhance the ability of students to critically appraise information on advances in the field of medical imaging science from a variety of sources. Students will become familiar with research methodologies commonly used in the field and understand how new imaging techniques are translated into clinical practice. Studnets will explore a specific area of medical imaging science by undertaking a literature review and applying clinical reasoning and reflection to assess the implications for practice. Additionally, students will develop skills in academic and professional writing, understand the peer review process, and acquire knowledge of key ethical considerations in research.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Clinical Imaging
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
None
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

MRTY3122

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Amir Tavakoli Taba, amir.tavakoli@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 3 October 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written exam
? 
Final Exam
MCQ
40% Formal exam period 1 hour AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
In-person written or creative task In-class activity submission
In-class activity submission
15% Multiple weeks - AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Written work Written Assignment
Written Assignment
45% Week 13 - AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7

Assessment summary

A1: Written assignment:

Written assignment on applying evidence-based practices to healthcare challenges.

A2: Final exam:

MCQ covering all topics, including lectures and tutorial activities.

A3: In-class activity submission:

Three small submissions based on class/tutorial activities in weeks 7, 10 and 12

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

 

Distinction

75 - 84

 

Credit

65 - 74

 

Pass

50 - 64

 

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.

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:

As per the university policy.

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.

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

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 06 Introduction to the unit of study Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 07 Research evidence and literature reviews Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO7
Tutorial 1 Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO7
Week 08 Research methods Lecture (2 hr) LO3 LO4 LO6
Week 09 Case study 1 Lecture (2 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 10 Case study 2 Lecture (2 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Tutorial 2 Tutorial (2 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5 LO7
Week 11 Peer review and educational resources for MRS Lecture (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 12 Research ethics Lecture (2 hr) LO4 LO5 LO6
Tutorial 3 Tutorial (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 13 Implementation science Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: This is a hybrid unit with both in-person and online activities. Attendance at in-person lectures and tutorials is required. Tutorial sessions are designed to integrate with and complement the lectures, so the full learning experience comes from the combination of these activities.

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.

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. select and evaluate a range of evidence and identify clinical challenges in the practice of medical imaging
  • LO2. determine the relevance of sources, and provide justification for your choices
  • LO3. make judgments on the efficiency of sampling techniques and methodologies
  • LO4. determine the relevance of results and apply checks for rigor of analysis
  • LO5. undertake reflection regarding your on-going professional needs to incorporate the latest research in medical imaging into clinical practice
  • LO6. demonstrate a sound knowledge of key ethical principles in the design, collection, and dissemination of research and quality improvement projects
  • LO7. use a variety of tools, including relevant databases, to search for and critically evaluate the research literature on a topic of relevance to professional radiographic practice

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
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
Domain 4.1. Resolve challenges through application of critical thinking and reflective practice.
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.
LO2
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
Domain 4.1. Resolve challenges through application of critical thinking and reflective practice.
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.
LO3
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
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.
LO4
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
Domain 4.1. Resolve challenges through application of critical thinking and reflective practice.
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.
LO5
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 3.2.d. Make recommendations to other members of the healthcare team about the suitability and application of the proposed medical radiation examination/treatment, when appropriate.
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
Domain 4.1. Resolve challenges through application of critical thinking and reflective practice.
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.b. Critically reflect on own strengths and limitations to identify learning needed to improve and adapt professional practice.
Domain 4.2.d. Plan and implement steps to address professional learning and development needs.
LO6
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 2. Professional and ethical practitioner
Domain 2.1.g. Practice the basic principles underpinning bio-ethics in medical radiation practice and recognise and respond appropriately to ethical issues encountered in practice.
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.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry.
LO7
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4. Evidence-informed practitioner
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.

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

Based on student feedback in previous years, the weight of the written assignment and exam has been reduced, and small continuous assessments have been added for class activities. Additionally, the focus of the written assignment has shifted from a simple literature review to applying evidence-based practices to healthcare challenges.

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.