Critical Performance  
By the end of this course the students will be able to palpate, 
assess and test structures of the vertebral column to determine if 
pathology exists.  They will also be able to interpret their findings 
and begin to integrate these test results into a functional 
assessment form.


Learning Outcomes
To achieve the critical performance, students will have demonstrated 
the ability to: 
1. Describe the structure and function of the bones and bony 
   prominences of the vertebral column.
2. Identify, palpate, approximate and demonstrate the significance of 
   the bones and bony prominences of the vertebral column.
3. Identify, palpate, approximate and demonstrate the significance of 
   the ligaments and inert tissues of the vertebral column.
4. Identify, palpate, approximate and demonstrate the function of 
   muscle groups in the neck and back.
5. Explain the surfaces and movement of the joints of the vertebral 
   column.
6. Palpate the bones and bony prominences of the vertebral column.
7. Palpate, assess and test the ligaments and inert tissues in the 
   back and the neck to determine if pathology exists.
8. Palpate, assess and test the muscle groups in the back and the 
   neck to determine if pathology exists.
9. Interpret test results accurately and explain these results 
   concisely in a functional assessment form.
10.Identify the structures of the spine and realize their importance 
   in terms of function and potential pathology.

Assignment ( 2 x 5%)               10%
Midterm Written Exam               20%
Midterm Practical Exam             20%
Final Written Exam                 25%
Final Practical Exam               25%
                                  ----
Total                             100%

The final grade will be a combined total of the written examination 
mark, laboratory practical and assignments.  A passing grade of 
minimum 60% (C) is required in both written and practical components 
to successfully complete the course.

LABORATORY PRACTICAL:
Practical exams consist of identifying, palpating and testing a 
number of selected anatomical structures on a class partner.

WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS:
Written test questions will cover class lectures, textbook 
assignments and laboratory sessions.

ATTENDANCE:
Attendance is expected at all planned classes and laboratory 
experiences.  Specific circumstances not withstanding, field 
placements should not interfere with attendance.

ATTIRE:
Laboratory class dress must include loose shorts and T-shirt, shoes 
and socks.  Students should change for every practical class unless 
informed ahead of time.

TEST AND ASSIGNMENT PROTOCOL  
 
To encourage behaviours that will help students to be successful in 
the workplace and to ensure that students receive credit for their 
individual work, the following rules apply to every course offered 
within the Faculty of Applied Health and Community Studies.  
            
1. The professor will specify in writing test dates and times and
   due dates and any special instructions for submitting assignments 
   and projects. 
2. Students must write all tests at the specified times. Missed 
   tests, in-class activities, assignments and presentations are 
   awarded a mark of zero.  If an extension or make-up opportunity is 
   approved by the professor as outlined below, the mark of zero may 
   be revised by subsequent performance.  The penalty for late 
   submission of written assignments is a loss of 10% per day for up 
   to five business days (excluding weekends and statutory holidays), 
   after which, a grade of zero is assigned. Business days include 
   any day that the college is open for business, whether the student
   has scheduled classes that day or not.  

cont'd in SECTION III

Essential Employability Skills
Essential Employability Skills emphasized in the course:

Notes: N/A

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
PLAR Contact: Loriann M. Hynes
Students may apply to receive credit by demonstrating achievement of the course learning outcomes through previous life and work experiences. This course is eligible for challenge through the following method(s):

Notes: N/A