Unit outline_

ORHL2201: Foundations of Oral Health IV

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Westmead, Sydney

This unit of study continues to deepen the knowledge and understanding of students in integrated theory, oral health in society, and evidence based practice.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Discipline of Oral Health
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
ORHL2101
Corequisites
? 
ORHL2202 and ORHL2204
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Kyle Cheng, kyle.cheng@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Shanika Nanayakkara, shanika.nanayakkara@sydney.edu.au
Rebecca Chen, rebecca.chen@sydney.edu.au
Jacqueline Biggar, jacqueline.biggar@sydney.edu.au
Melinda Lawther, melinda.lawther@sydney.edu.au
Melanie Aley, melanie.aley@sydney.edu.au
Patrick Westhoff, patrick.westhoff@sydney.edu.au
Tabitha Acret, tabitha.acret@sydney.edu.au
Lauren Church, lauren.church@sydney.edu.au
Nikki Barrett, nikki.barrett@sydney.edu.au
William Carlson-Jones, william.carlsonjones@sydney.edu.au
Rosemary Golding, rosemary.golding@sydney.edu.au
Erin Taylor, e.taylor@sydney.edu.au
Nathan Aulsebrook, nathan.aulsebrook@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written exam
? 
hurdle task
Integrated Theory and Paediatrics
Final written exam paper on integrated theory and paediatric topics
40% Formal exam period 2 hours AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Presentation hurdle task group assignment Health Collaboration Challenge
Attendance, participation and completion of all tasks (hurdle task)
0% Week 02
Due date: 15 Aug 2025 at 23:59
Scheduled for 15th August AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO8
Out-of-class quiz Early Feedback Task Early Feedback Task
10 multiple choice questions
0% Week 03
Due date: 22 Aug 2025 at 23:59
30 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3
Written test
? 
Integrated Theory & Paediatrics Mid-Semester Exam
Integrated Theory & Paediatrics Mid-Semester Exam
10% Week 10
Due date: 16 Oct 2025 at 11:00
1 hour AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3
Creative work group assignment Oral Health in Society - Group Evaluation Plan
Evaluation of a health promotion project
10% Week 12
Due date: 31 Oct 2025 at 23:59
700-1000 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO4 LO5
Presentation group assignment Paediatric Case Study Presentation
20-minute group presentation on a paediatric case study
20% Week 13
Due date: 03 Nov 2025 at 09:00
20-minute group presentation AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO8 LO7
Written work Evidence-based Practice Assignment
Evidence-based Assignment - Individual task
20% Week 13
Due date: 07 Nov 2025 at 23:59
1500 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO6
hurdle task = hurdle task ?
group assignment = group assignment ?
early feedback task = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

  • Oral Health in Society - Group health promotional campaignStudents will develop an oral health promotional campaign for a target population of their choice.
  • Evidence-based practice assignmentThis assignment requires students to complete a critical appraisal assignment, related to patient care. 
  • Summative Written Examinations: These are summative closed book written examinations. In semester 2, written examinations will be given during the Assessment period. These examinations may involve the following assessment formats.

  • SBA This is a multiple choice or single best answer examination where the student must select the correct answer from four or five options and extended matching questions, where there may be more options to choose the correct answer. It is designed to test theoretical understanding, and the application of concepts to practical situations, and covers learning outcomesas listed in above table.
  • MEQ Modified essay questions are short answer questions. Assessment criteria: Criteria that reflect the acceptable standard and performance at a high standard will be applied to this assessment. Other information: See the Learning Management System (LMS) site for other essential information on this assessment.
  • Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

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, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Distinction

75 - 84

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Credit

65 - 74

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Pass

50 - 64

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

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.

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 -01 Exodontia 2 – Armamentarium, Technique and Post-operative Care (Paediatrics) - Kyle Cheng (Pre-recorded) Independent study (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Exodontia 3 – Haemastasis, Wound Healing and Complications (Paediatrics) - Kyle Cheng (Pre-recorded) Independent study (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 01 Oral Health Promotion Project Workshop (Oral Health in Society) - Melanie Aley and Jacqueline Biggar Workshop (2 hr) LO5
Preventative Management of Root Caries (Integrated Theory) W. Carlson-Jones Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Restorations and Periodontal Considerations (Integrated Theory) - Patrick Westhoff Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 02 Tooth Erosion and Tooth Wear (Integrated Theory) - Dr Rosemary Golding Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Lecture 1 (Evidence-Based Practice) Independent study (1 hr) LO6 LO7
Week 03 Chemical Agents in Periodontal Therapy (Integrated Theory) - Dr Tihana Divnic-Resnik Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Tutorial 1 (Evidence-Based Practice) Tutorial (2 hr) LO6 LO7
Trauma to Primary & Permanent Teeth (Paediatrics) - William Carlson-Jones Lecture (1 hr) LO3
Case Based Learning - Paediatrics 3 (Paediatrics) - Kyle Cheng Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO8
Week 04 Evaluating Health Promotional Activities (Oral Health in Society) - Rebecca Chen Lecture (1 hr) LO5
Treatment Planning for Adult Restorative Patient (Integrated Theory) - William Carlson-Jones Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Management of Medically Compromised Child (Paediatrics) - Melinda Lawther Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO8
Week 05 Oral Health in Pregnancy (Integrated Theory) - Dr Ajesh George Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Social and Psychological Aspects of Aging (Integrated Theory) - Jacqueline Biggar Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Lecture 2 (Evidence-Based Practice) Independent study (1 hr) LO6 LO7
Week 06 Polypharmacy 1 (Integrated Theory) - Dr Edwin Tan Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Tutorial 2 (Evidence-Based Practice) Tutorial (2 hr) LO6 LO7
Paediatric Oral Pathology (Paediatrics) - Melinda Lawther Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 07 Australian Indigenous Culture and Community Health (Oral Health in Society) - Erin Taylor Online class (1 hr) LO4 LO5
Polypharmacy 2 (Integrated Theory) - Dr Edwin Tan Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Periodontal Disease in Children and Adolescents (Paediatrics) - Melinda Lawther Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 08 Dentinal Hypersensitivity (Integrated Theory) - Nathan Aulsebrook Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Lecture 3 (Evidence-Based Practice) Independent study (1 hr) LO6 LO7
Management of Children with Special Needs (Paediatrics) - Dr Neeta Prabhu Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 09 Implant or Natural Tooth (Integrated Theory) - Dr Tihana Divnic-Resnik Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Tutorial 3 (Evidence-Based Practice) Tutorial (2 hr) LO6 LO7
Case Based Learning - Paediatrics 1 (Paediatrics) - Kyle Cheng Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO8
Week 10 Management of Patients with Hepatitis and HIV (Integrated Theory) - A. Terry Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Case Based Learning - Paediatrics 2 (Paediatrics) - Kyle Cheng Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO8
Week 11 Paediatric Nutrition and Management of Patients with Eating Disorders (Integrated Theory & Paediatrics) - Dr Nikki Barrett Online class (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Lecture 4 (Evidence-Based Practice) Independent study (1 hr) LO6 LO7
Week 12 Case Based Learning – Elderly/Polypharmacy (Integrated Theory) - Jacqueline Biggar Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Evidence Based Practice Tutorial 4 (Evidence-Based Practice) Tutorial (2 hr) LO6 LO7
Week 13 Case Based Learning - Integrated Theory (Integrated Theory) - Patrick Westhoff Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO7

Attendance and class requirements

  • Attendance: Attendance is a professional responsibility required of all students admitted to academic programs within the Sydney Dental School. All programs in the Sydney Dental School have a 90% attendance policy, for all compulsory components of Units of Study, as detailed in the Faculty of Dentistry Attendance Provisions 2015. This includes all clinical and practical sessions. The course requirements cannot be satisfied if more than 10% of any section of a course is missed for any reason.

  • Professionalism: Students in all Sydney Dental School programs are subject to the Faculty of Medicine and Health Professionalism Requirements 2019 and the Faculty of Medicine and Health Professionalism Provisions 2019. Professionalism is an essential component of developing competency to practice. It is important for students to demonstrate professional behaviour in all contexts and environments. In accordance with these local provisions: candidates who demonstrate serious or repeated unprofessional behaviour may be required to show cause as to why their enrolment should be continued. Failure to show cause may result in exclusion from the course.

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. Examine the clinical implications of medical conditions that may require special precautions prior to or during dental treatment.
  • LO2. Identify and discuss modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for periodontal disease and caries in individuals and treat accordingly.
  • LO3. Apply prevention and protective interventions for patient’s home care to develop a tailored oral health care plan for all ages.
  • LO4. Provide culturally safe care to diverse groups and populations, recognising barriers to accessing care and responding to the distinct needs of those at increased risk of poor oral health.
  • LO5. Design, critically appraise, implement, and evaluate evidence-based health promotion strategies and programs.
  • LO6. Describe different types of research methodologies, interpret statistical terminology and develop appropriate search strategies to answer clinical question.
  • LO7. Use critical reasoning and apply evidence-based research when individualising a patients treatment plan.
  • LO8. Engage in interprofessional collaborative practice to provide person-centred care including recognising where and when to refer.

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

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

No changes have been made since this unit was last offered

Work, health and safety

Students must comply with work health and safety, infection control and dress standard policies of all laboratories, placement sites and Local Health Districts (LHDs).

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.