module specification

This module focuses on the practice haematology in a clinical setting. Providing the understanding and knowledge of the theory and practice of haematology. The module also explores the epidemiology, causes, consequences and monitoring of haematological and haemostatic disease. A focus on QA/QC, GLP and BSH guidelines for current practice.

Standard entry requirement: Lower second (2.2) first degree, or equivalent, in Biomedical Sciences or a related subject containing elements of haematology.

The aims of this module are:
To develop an advanced and comprehensive knowledge of a range of haematological, haemorrhagic and thrombotic diseases, and to provide knowledge and understanding of the most recent advances in the clinical management of malignant haematological disease. Investige current trends, practice and research in haematology. To develop the understanding of QA/QC, GLP, NEQAS, etc.
In conjunction with the above, the module will develop students' ability to appraise, research, critically evaluate, formulate and defend a 2,500 word research project on a topical issue in this field.

Red cell physiology
- Red blood cell production & kinetics, Haemoglobin synthesis, Red blood cell metabolism
Red cell morphology and haematopoiesis; destruction of red cells; fragility; inherited and aquired anaemias; haemoglobinopathies; primary and derived haematological indices. Haematinic assays.
White cell morphology; production of white cell lines; causes and characteristics of leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma; myeloproliferative disorders. Impact of molecular diagnostics.
Haemostasis and thrombosis: the vascular endothelium; platelet aggregation; coagulation. Selected bleeding and clotting disorders; treatment options.
Regulation and control of laboratory procedures linked to haematology.

Students' knowledge and understanding of haematology will be developed through a programme of lectures and supporting exercises, together with the guided use of student centred learning resources. Lectures will be used to provide a conceptual framework. Student centred assignments; including the execution of a substantial research assignment will enable students to reinforce and expand their knowledge and develop subject skills and competence.  
Activities include: Online lectures (22 hours), tutorials and seminars (16 hours), computer based learning, formative and summative assessments, other activities including: independent learning tasks; library searches.  These activities when summarised in the form of personal development portfolio (156 hours of self study by the student ).

On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:

1. Discuss, report, present and defend the importance of haematological investigations to our understanding of the diagnosis and monitoring of haematological disorders and describe the nature, functions, turnover and diagnostic values of blood cells and associated indicies.
2. Recognise and relate the aetiology, pathogenesis and epidemiological features of particular haematological, haemostatic or thrombotic diseases and demonstrate a critical awareness of current issues within the role of practicing health care scientists in clinical and diagnostic Blood Sciences, particularly Haematology
3. Understand and discuss some of the principles of QA/QC, GLP, NEQAS, and BHS guidelines for laboratory practice and provide a critical and balanced review on a research topic in respect to haematology.

The module will be summatively assessed by means of a progress test component (30% of the overall mark), case study (30% of overall mark) and dissertation (40% of the overall mark). The coursework will consist of a progress test including directed reading topics. There will be online formative assessments that provide formative feedback. Summative diagnostic assessment will also be provided by a progress test. To pass the module students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 50%.

Bains, B. J., (2006). Blood Cells a Practical Guide, 4th edition, Blackwell Publishing.
Blaine, A., Kinght, G., and Moore, G., (2010) Haematology. OUP Oxford.
Hoffbrand, A. V., Catovsky, D., and Tuddenham, E. G.D (2005) Postgraduate Haematology, 5th edition, Wiley-Blackwell Publishing.
Hoffbrand, A. V., and Moss, P. A. H., (2011), Essential Haematology, 6th edition. Willey-Blackwell Publishing.
Howard, M. R. and Hamilton, P. J. (2007), Haematology (An Illustrated Colour Text), 3rd edition. Churchill Livingstone.
Lewis, S. M., Bain, B. J. and Bates, I. (2006), Dacie and Lewis Practical Haematology, 10th edition, Churchill Livingstone.
Mehta, A., and Hoffbrand, A.V. (2009) Haematology at a Glance. 3rd edition. Willey-Blackwell.
Proven, D.(2007), ABC to Clinical Haematology, BMJ Books (Blackwell Publishing)

You are also referred to articles, such as those below in selected learning centre journals: BMJ, Lancet, Clinical Haematology, Blood, Medicine and the web haematology links in the student directed learning tutorial.