School of Nursing and Midwifery

401021 Being a Professional Nurse or Midwife

Spring 2018
 Unit Details

Unit Code: 401021

Unit Name: Being a Professional Nurse or Midwife
Credit Points: 10
Unit Level: 3
Assumed Knowledge: Primary health care principles, professional communication, roles and responsibilities of the
Registered Nurse or Midwife, ethical and legal frameworks for practice.

Note: Students with any problems, concerns or doubts should discuss those with the Unit Coordinator as early as they can.

Unit Coordinator
Name: Mrs Nikki Meller
Phone: (02) 9685 9816
Email: [email protected]

Campus Coordinator
Name: Ms Paula Sanchez
Phone: (02) 9165 8652
Email: [email protected]
Consultation Arrangement:
Your tutor is the point of first contact for students who have queries relating to the unit. If you are unable to
contact your Tutor please contact the Unit Coordinator or Deputy Unit Coordinator via the unit email address at
[email protected].

Email communication with academic staff must be via Western Sydney University student email accounts
only. Emails sent from any non-Western Sydney University address will not receive a response. Student Email
Accounts can be activated via the Western Sydney University Home page from Western Central.

Tutors will advise of consultation times during the 1st workshop.

Edition: Spring 2018

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electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission from the Dean of the School. Copyright for acknowledged materials reproduced
herein is retained by the copyright holder. All readings in this publication are copied under licence in accordance with Part VB of the Copyright Act 1968.
Contents
1 About Being a Professional Nurse or Midwife 2
1.1 An Introduction to this Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 What is Expected of You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 Changes to Unit as a Result of Past Student Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2 Assessment Information 3
2.1 Unit Learning Outcomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.2 Approach to Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.3 Assessment Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.4 Assessment Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.4.1 Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple choice and self-reflection questions . . . . . . 5
2.4.2 Case study - clinical incidents, guided question and answer format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.4.3 Essay: Critical Analysis Essay of a Case Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5 General Submission Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3 Teaching and Learning Activities 15

4 Learning Resources 17
4.1 Recommended Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Note: The relevant Learning Guide Companion supplements this document

1
1 About Being a Professional Nurse or Midwife
1.1 An Introduction to this Unit
This unit explores the process of transition from student to professional practitioner. Students will gain an under-
standing of the congruence between the provision of health care and professional regulatory frameworks. The role
of the graduate nurse or midwife will be explored through a detailed examination of case studies that apply relevant
nursing theory to professional practice. This unit will build capacity in students to meet their professional respon-
sibilities as capable practitioners in nursing or midwifery. Students will also have the opportunity to discuss career
planning and set priorities for ongoing professional development.

1.2 What is Expected of You

Study Load
A student is expected to study an hour per credit point a week. For example a 10 credit point unit would require 10
hours of study per week. This time includes the time spent within classes during lectures, tutorials or practicals.

Attendance
It is strongly recommended that students attend all scheduled learning activities to support their learning.

Online Learning Requirements

Unit materials will be made available on the unit’s vUWS (E-Learning) site (https://vuws.westernsydney.edu.au/).
You are expected to consult vUWS at least twice a week, as all unit announcements will be made via vUWS. Teaching
and learning materials will be regularly updated and posted online by the teaching team.

Special Requirements
Essential Equipment:
Access to an internet enabled device is essential in order to be able to: access course materials; to partici-
pate in discussion groups; and to access additional resources provided by the lecturer during the session. See
http://www.westernsydney.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/services_and_facilities/uwsonline_student_support
for further information.
Legislative Pre-Requisites:
None

1.3 Changes to Unit as a Result of Past Student Feedback

The University values student feedback in order to improve the quality of its educational programs. The feedback
provided helps us improve teaching methods and units of study. The survey results inform unit content and design,
learning guides, teaching methods, assessment processes and teaching materials.

You are welcome to provide feedback that is related to the teaching of this unit. At the end of the semester
you will be given the opportunity to complete a Student Feedback on Unit (SFU) questionnaire to assess the unit.
You may also have the opportunity to complete a Student Feedback on Teaching (SFT) questionnaire to provide
feedback for individual teaching staff.

As a result of student feedback, the following changes and improvements to this unit have recently been made:

– The case study for the essay has been changed to reflect the undergraduate nurse or midwife transition to
professional practice and further enhance reflective practice during this time in their degree.
– Teaching and learning activites have been updated and more clearly aligned with the unit learning outcomes.
– Week four face to face workshop has been moved to the end of the semester (either week 12 or 13 depending
on the campus) to encourage student engagement with the unit after their clinical placement and their last
assessment item.

2
2 Assessment Information
2.1 Unit Learning Outcomes
This unit will contribute to completion of course level outcomes, Western Sydney University graduate attributes
and the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia Registered Nurse Standards for Practice. Course level learning
outcomes can be accessed on your Unit vUWS Home Page.

The Being a Professional Nurse or Midwife unit is part of Bachelor of Nursing or Bachelor of Midwifery course.
The unit provides the foundation for developing comprehensive, coherent and connected knowledge in the nursing
and midwifery disciplines and introduces and develops interaction skills which will be required by graduates in their
work environments.

Learning outcomes for the unit are outlined below.

Outcome
1 Appraise theoretical perspectives that inform and enhance graduate practice.
2 Evaluate the relevant professional regulatory frameworks and their relationship to competent professional
practice
3 Analyse the lifelong learning approach as it applies to continuing professional development and maintaining
professional currency
4 Evaluate a professional portfolio that meets registration requirements
5 Reflect on readiness for practice through self-review and group reflection and feedback
6 Evaluate processes relevant to WH&S issues to provide safe, quality care within the scope of practice
7 Reflect on and set personal goals for career development in relation to primary health care and identify
potential professional mentoring opportunities

2.2 Approach to Learning

1. Blended Learning Activity
Blended learning activities have been embedded throughout the unit content to enhance the student learning ex-
periences through the use of tutorials, clinical practice units, audio visual material, small group work, and online
quiz material. Access to a computer and the internet is essential in order to be able to: access course materials; to
participate in discussion groups; and to access additional resources provided by the lecturer during the session. See
http://www.westernsydney.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/services_and_facilities/uwsonline_student_support
for further information

2. Workshop/Seminar
A workshop/seminar is a small group activity that enables you to have lecture content explained by the tutor if
required. You will then be able to apply, explore and debate the content through interactive learning activities with
other students.

3. Group Work
Group work enhances student learning. Through planned group activities, and discussion with other students, you
will have the opportunity to clarify your own thoughts and understandings of unit concepts. Group work also offers
the opportunity to cooperate in a team situation and to learn skills that will assist you to work effectively in a health
care team.

3
2.3 Assessment Summary
The assessment items in this unit are designed to enable you to demonstrate that you have achieved the unit learning
outcomes. Completion and submission of all assessment items which have been designated as mandatory or compul-
sory is essential to receive a passing grade.

To pass this unit you must:

- Achieve at least 50% when all assessment marks are totalled, and
- Complete and submit all assessment tasks at the required time and required academic standard.

Fail Non Submission Grade (FNS)

The FNS grade will be awarded if you do not complete one or more of the mandatory assessment requirements listed
in this Learning Guide or you do not officially withdraw from this unit. The FNS grade will be awarded irrespective
of whether you achieve 50 or greater overall in the unit, for example you may achieve 35FNS or 55FNS.

Item Weight Due Date ULOs Assessed Threshold

Four online weekly 15% Weeks 2, 3, 4 and 14. 1,3,4,7 No
participation tasks:
Multiple choice and
self-reflection questions
Case study - clinical 35% Week 6, Monday 3rd September 2018, 2,5,6 No
incidents, guided question at midnight
and answer format
Essay: Critical Analysis 50% Week 14, Monday 29th October 2018, 1,2,3,5,6,7 No
Essay of a Case Study at midnight

Feedback on Assessment
Feedback is an important part of the learning process that can improve your progress towards achieving the learning
outcomes. Feedback is any written or spoken response made in relation to academic work such as an assessment
task, a performance or product. It can be given to you by a teacher, an external assessor or student peer, and may
be given individually or to a group of students. As a Western Sydney University student, it is your responsibility to
seek out and act on feedback that is provided to you as a resource to further your learning.

4
2.4 Assessment Details
2.4.1 Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple choice and self-reflection questions

Weight: 15%
Type of Collaboration: Individual
Due: Weeks 2, 3, 4 and 14.
Submission: Refer to Section 2.5 of the Learning Guide - General Submission Requirements
Format: Four Online Weekly Participation Tasks
Length: 4 online tasks, approx. 30mins each
Curriculum Mode:

Weighting
15% in total (3.75% each task)
Due Date

Activation Date Closing Date

Quiz 1 - Week 1, Monday 30th July, 2018 at 0900 hours Quiz 1 - Week 2, Monday 6th August, 2018 at 0900 hours
Quiz 2 - Week 2, Monday 6th August, 2018 at 0900 hours Quiz 2 - Week 3, Monday 13th August, 2018 at 0900 hours
Quiz 3 - Week 3, Monday 13th August, 2018 at 0900 hours Quiz 3 - Week 4, Monday 20th August, 2018 at 0900 hours
Quiz 4 - Week 13, Monday 22nd October, 2018 at 0900 hours Quiz 4 - Week 14, Monday 29th October, 2018 at 0900 hours

Rationale
Students are required to access four (4) online weekly participation tasks on vUWS to consolidate, enhance and
evaluate learning in this unit. Questions in these quizzes will be drawn from the content covered in modules and
on-line readings. Feedback on answers is provided to encourage formative learning.

Details
Weekly Participation Tasks require you to:

1. Access, read and/or view the module of prescribed resources for the week in the Learning Materials folder on
vUWS. Often these resources will be a mixture of video case studies, fact sheets or institutional policies or documents.

2. Complete prescribed tasks embedded in the module on vUWS. Often this is a mixture of quiz questions that
focus on checking your understanding of the case studies, definitions of key terms, understanding the main concepts
presented in the module of learning materials for the week or self-reflection questions. Each task may include a
different number of questions, and each question within the tasks is scored differently. This recognises the different
levels of complexity for the different question types. Please read the instructions carefully for each question.

Each quiz will be open for a seven (7) day period. Students can attempt each quiz one time only at any time
during the 7-day availability period. You are strongly encouraged to do so early in the assessment period to avoid or
resolve any unforeseen difficulties.

If you experience technical problems whilst attempting the on-line quiz, please e-mail the Unit Coordinator, Nik-
ki Meller, [email protected] at the time of the difficulty, so the problem can be rectified. No technical
difficulties will be considered after the quiz has closed. For all other problems, please follow Western Sydney University
procedures to apply for Special Consideration.

5
2.4.2 Case study - clinical incidents, guided question and answer format

Weight: 35%
Type of Collaboration: Individual
Due: Week 6, Monday 3rd September 2018, at midnight
Submission: Refer to Section 2.5 of the Learning Guide - General Submission Requirements
Format: Case Study - Clinical incidents
Length: 1250 words
Curriculum Mode:

Word Count

There is a word limit of 1250 words. Use your computer to total the number of words used in your assignmen-
t. However, do not include the reference list at the end of your assignment in the word count. In-text citations will
be included in the additional 10% word count. If you exceed the word limit by more than 10%, the marker will stop
marking at 1250 words plus 10%.

Aim of Assessment

The aim of this assessment is to develop your understanding when evaluating the professional conduct of a nurse/midwife
in a case study provided. The case study is a shortened version of a decision statement selected from Decisions of the
Professional Standards Committee from the Nursing and Midwifery Council New South Wales, featuring a clinical
incident. This assessment also develops individual skills for critical reflection and the application of clinical reasoning
in practical situations.

Details

Students are to draw on the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards and the NMBA professional
practice documents to develop critical responses to the clinical incident. The following questions are required to be
answered for this assessment:

1. What happened in this clinical incident?

2. What activities did the nurse or midwife need to complete in the immediate situation?
3. What professional behaviours may have made a difference in this situation?
4. What do you learn from this case study about your own preparedness for professional practice?

Support your answers with reference to the relevant clinical and professional standards that apply to professional
practice.

Student instructions

– The marking criteria and standards have been developed to guide you through the assessment process. Please
read the criteria and standards carefully.
– The paper must include in-text references and a reference list at the end of the paper in the APA style 6th
edition (available on vUWS) for all resources used.
Resources:
Students self-select one case study from the 401021 vUWS site that will be available in the assessment tab on
vUWS from week 1. There will be one nursing case study and one midwifery case study.
An assessment template has been uploaded on the vUWS site, under Assessment 2 tab, for you to use for the
assessment. Please use the template accordingly as this is a guided question and answer format assessment.
Marking Criteria:

6
Criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Unsatisfactory
Concise description Concise, Concise, Informative and A basic description The description is
of the incident. informative, informative and mostly complete of some aspects of unclear and
insightful and complete description of the the clinical incident. provides incomplete
complete description of the clinical incident. information about
description of the clinical incident. the clinical incident.
clinical incident.
Mark _/5 4.5-5 4 3.5 2.5 - 3 ≤2
Identifies the Comprehensive Thorough Adequate Attempts to The relevant factors
relevant identification of the identification of the identification of the identify the relevant that potentially
contributory relevant factors relevant factors relevant factors factors that contributed to the
factors. that potentially that potentially that potentially potentially incident are
contributed to the contributed to the contributed to the contributed to the insufficiently
References required specific incident. specific incident. specific incident. specific incident. identified.

Outstanding, clear, Clear, concise Relevant, clear, A basic level of Inadequate

concise reasoning reasoning that is concise reasoning reasoning that is reasoning and fails
that is well matched well matched to the that is mostly mostly matched to to match answer to
to the context of context of the matched to the the context of the the context of the
the incident with incident. context of the incident. incident.
considerable incident.
insight. Minimum of two One reference used No references used
references used to Minimum of two to support answer to support answer
Minimum of two support your answer references used to
references used to support your answer
support your answer
Mark _/10 8.5 - 10 7.5 - 8 6.5 - 7 5-6 ≤4.5
What professional Very focused, clear, Focused, clear, Relevant, clear, Attempts to discuss Inadequate
behaviours may concise discussion concise discussion concise discussion the professional discussion of the
have made a of the professional of the professional of the professional behaviours that professional
difference in this behaviours that behaviours that behaviours that may have made a behaviours that
situation? may have made a may have made a may have made a difference in the may have made a
difference in the difference in the difference in the case study difference in the
References required case study case study case study situation. case study
situation. situation. situation. situation.
A number of
A comprehensive A thorough range An adequate range contributory factors Fails to adequately
range of of contributory of contributory are identified but identify
contributory factors factors is identified factors is identified with minimal contributory factors
is identified with a with a minimum of with a minimum of support from the and the answer
minimum of two two references used two references used literature. lacks support from
references used to to support your to support your the literature.
support your answer answer answer
Mark _/10 8.5 - 10 7.5 - 8 6.5 - 7 5-6 ≤4.5
What do you learn A highly analytical An analytical and A clear A basic Inadequate
from this case and critical well developed understanding of understanding of understanding of
study about your understanding of understanding of how professional how professional how professional
own preparedness how professional how professional accountability accountability accountability
for professional accountability accountability applies to own applies to own applies to own
practice? applies to own applies to own preparedness for preparedness for preparedness for
preparedness for preparedness for graduate graduate graduate
Elaborate on graduate graduate professional professional professional
professional professional professional practice. practice. practice.
accountability practice. practice.
Mark _/5 4.5-5 4 3.5 2.5-3 ≤2

7
Criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Unsatisfactory
Writing style and Outstanding, fluent, Excellent writing Effective expression Clear writing style. Poor writing style
References writing style and style and use of and writing style. Basic vocabulary, with errors in
use of language. language. No errors Minimal errors in with minor errors in expression, sentence
Consistently in spelling, grammar, spelling, grammar, spelling, construction,
accurate grammar, punctuation, punctuation, paragraph
referencing, with all punctuation or sentence sentence structure, spelling
references correctly writing style. construction, construction, or and punctuation
given, both in text Consistently paragraph paragraph structure that impede
and in final accurate construction or that do not impede meaning.
reference list referencing, with spelling. meaning.
according to APA correct references Adequate Satisfactory Unsatisfactory
style. given both in text referencing, using a referencing, using a referencing,
and in final reasonable range of reasonable range of insufficient, current
A minimum of five reference list current academic current academic academic
references is according to APA references. Minimal references. Some references. Absent,
provided and style. referencing style referencing style inadequate or
consistently used to errors, following errors but following incorrect
support all answers. A minimum of five APA conventions APA conventions referencing style
references is both in text and in both in text and in noted.
provided and final reference list. final reference list.
consistently used to Less than five
support all answers. A minimum of five A minimum of five references provided
references is references is and insufficiently
provided and provided, not used to support
mostly used to consistently used to answers.
support all answers. support all answers.
Mark _/5 4.5-5 4 3.5 2.5-3 ≤2

8
2.4.3 Essay: Critical Analysis Essay of a Case Study

Weight: 50%
Type of Collaboration: Individual
Due: Week 14, Monday 29th October 2018, at midnight
Submission: Refer to Section 2.5 of the Learning Guide - General Submission Requirements
Format: Critical Analysis Essay of a case study
Length: 1500 words
Curriculum Mode:

Word Count

There is a word limit of 1500 words. Use your computer to total the number of words used in your assignmen-
t. However, do not include the reference list at the end of your assignment in the word count. In-text citations will
be included in the additional 10% word count. If you exceed the word limit by more than 10%, the marker will stop
marking at 1500 words plus 10%.

Background

As you approach a life-long journey of continuing professional development and professional currency, it is important
for you as transitioning registered nurses and registered midwives to reflect on how far you have come and what
your new graduate year may look like. Understanding what factors may influence your transition, what strategies you
may use to enhance your transition and the types of resources available for you to access to facilitate your individual
transition to practice, will help you evaluate, reflect and set personal goals as you enter your new career.

Aim of assessment

The aim of this assessment provides students with an opportunity to critically analyse and discuss the relation-
ship between the theoretical construct of ’being a professional nurse or midwife’ and the transition to graduate
practice.

Details

Write an essay based on the case study provided exploring the different elements that inform your preparation
for transition to professional practice. Based on current theoretical perspectives, analyse the case study and explain
the importance of managing clinical and non-clinical skills essential for new graduate nurses or new graduate midwives
to address in readiness for meeting professional responsibilities as capable practitioners in nursing and midwifery. You
must also reflect on your own preparedness for practice as a new graduate nurse or new graduate midwife, taking
into consideration your own values and personal goals as you enter the health workforce.

Student instructions

– Write in essay format using the broad headings Introduction, Critical Analysis, Discussion, Reflection and
Conclusion to structure your paper.
– The marking criteria and standards have been developed to guide you through the assessment process. Please
read the criteria and standards carefully.
– The paper must include in-text references and a reference list at the end of the paper in the APA style 6th
edition (available on vUWS) for all resources used.
Resources:
Students will be able to access the case study for this critical analysis essay from the 401021 vUWS site, avail-
able in the assessment tab on vUWS from week 1. There is one case study for nursing students and one case study
for midwifery students.

Marking Criteria:

9
Criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Unsatisfactory
Introduction Orientates the Orientates the Orientates the Attempts to Limited and/or
reader to the reader to the reader to the orientate the reader inadequate
selected topic and selected topic and selected topic and to the selected orientation to the
the relationship to the relationship to the relationship to topic and the selected topic
’being a ’being a ’being a relationship to and/or the
professional’ with a professional’ with a professional’ with ’being a relationship to
correctly structured, correctly structured an adequately professional’ with a ’being a
concise and clearly and clear thesis structured and clear satisfactory thesis professional.’ The
articulated original statement. thesis statement. statement, but may thesis statement is
thesis statement. The meaning of a The meaning of lack clarity. absent or unrelated
The meaning of all range of relevant most major The meaning of to the topic.
relevant major major concepts is concepts is clearly some concepts is Inadequate or
concepts is clarified clarified and defined. defined in general. unclear definition of
and defined. defined. Provides a clear Provides a basic major concepts.
Provides an Provides an outline of how the outline of how the An outline is not
insightful and informative and topic will be topic will be provided or does
analytical outline of analytical outline of addressed in the addressed in the not show how the
how the topic will how the topic will body of the essay. body of the essay. topic will be
be addressed in the be addressed in the addressed in the
body of the essay. body of the essay. body of the essay.
Mark _/5 4.5-5 4 3.5 2.5-3 ≤2
Critical analysis Develops a Develops a Develops a good Develops an The essay has no
persuasive and persuasive argument in argument but the clear argument or
carefully considered argument in response to the relation between the argument


argument that response to the selected topic and the selected topic developed is not


demonstrates selected topic and the relationship to and being a relevant to the

  
exceptional insight the relationship to being a professional’ lacks selected topic
of being a being a professional.’ clarity and focus. and/or being a
professional.’ professional.’ professional.’
There is a degree of There is some
Advances Effectively uses critical analysis that degree of support Assertions are
interesting, original varied and is supported by the for the points made mainly descriptive
and compelling convincing support use of good quality from current with inadequate
support for the for the critical and relevant sources but minimal support. The
critical analysis with analysis through the sources. development of a analysis lacks depth
expert use of high use of high quality, critical perspective. with little
quality, credible and credible, and development of
relevant sources. relevant sources. argumentation or a
critical perspective.
Mark _/10 8.5 - 10 7.5 - 8 6.5 - 7 5-6 ≤4.5
Discussion Considers a Considers a wide Considers a Considers a basic The essay does not
comprehensive range of views on sufficient range of range of views on consider a range of
range of views on the topic and views on the topic the topic; the views on the topic;
the topic and maintains an to produce a discussion mainly the discussion is
maintains a critical analytical approach balanced discussion; describes or limited to
stance by expertly by assessing the assesses to some summarises the description and
and insightfully context, extent the context, context, summary, and/or
assessing the contribution and contribution and contribution and does not consider
context, theoretical basis for theoretical basis but theoretical basis for or include different
contribution and differe mostly describes the limited range of perspectives, and/
theoretical basis for the different perspectives on the or does not
new and novel perspectives on the topic with acknowledge the
perspectives on the topic with acknowledgement sources used in the
topic with acknowledgement of most sources. discussion.
acknowledgement of all sources.
of all sources.
Mark _/15 13.5-15 11.5-13 9.5-11 7.5-9 ≤7

10
Criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Unsatisfactory
Reflection A comprehensive, A thorough An adequate A brief statement Does not provide a
Assesses progress clear, and concise statement that statement that that demonstrates a statement of
with preparation for statement that demonstrates a demonstrates a basic understanding discipline specific
graduate practice demonstrates an clear understanding reasonable of discipline specific and personal
insightful of discipline specific understanding of and personal progress.
Identifies areas of understanding of and personal discipline specific progress with some Insufficient
strength discipline specific progress with all of and personal the following skills: attention to most of
and personal the following skills: progress with most - clinical reasoning the following skills:
progress with all of - clinical reasoning of the following - problem-solving - clinical reasoning
the following skills: - problem-solving skills: - teamwork - problem-solving
- clinical reasoning - teamwork - clinical reasoning - research - teamwork
- problem-solving - research - problem-solving - communication - research
- teamwork - communication - teamwork - communication
- research - research Basic identification
- communication Clear identification - communication of areas of personal Does not
of areas of personal strength with adequately identify
Exceptional, clear, strength in relation Adequate general reference to at least two NMBA
concise to at least two identification of at least two NMBA professional
identification of NMBA professional areas of personal professional standards.
areas of personal standards. strength in relation standards. The assessment is
strength in relation The answer is to at least two The answer is mainly descriptive
to at least two supported with NMBA professional supported with and/or fails to
NMBA professional critical reflection standards. some reflection on include personal
standards. and insight into The answer is general examples of examples.
The answer is relevant personal supported with strengths in
supported with examples of adequate reflection learning,
critical reflection strengths in on personal competence and
and considerable learning, examples of skill.
insight into a competence and strengths in
judicious selection skill. learning,
of relevant personal competence and
examples of skill.
strengths in
learning,
competence and
skill.
Mark _/10 8.5 - 10 7.5 - 8 6.5 - 7 5-6 ≤4.5
Conclusion Presents a thorough Presents a concise Presents the overall Provides a basic Limited conclusion
overall argument overall argument argument developed outline of the that fails to provide
developed in the developed in the in the paper, argument developed relevant, adequate
paper, providing paper, providing providing a in the paper, summing up of
clear, concise, and clear and summary of most of including a points, arguments
original insights. relevant insights. the significant summary of some of and issues discussed
Provides a Summarises the points discussed in the points discussed in the paper.
well-reasoned significant points the paper. in the paper. Failure to address
summary of the discussed in the The conclusion is The conclusion may the basic
significant points paper, with clear supported by a lack clear reference requirement of a
discussed in the reference to the restatement of the to the thesis conclusion. Limited
paper, and thesis statement thesis statement statement provided or no reference to a
anticipates future provided in the provided in the in the introduction. thesis statement.
developments, with introduction. introduction.
clear reference to
the thesis
statement provided
in the introduction.
Mark _/5 4.5 - 5 4 3.5 2.5 - 3 ≤2

11
Criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Unsatisfactory
Referencing and All references Adequate and Adequate Satisfactory Absent, inadequate
Presentation correctly given, correct references referencing, using a referencing, using a or incorrect
both in text and in given both in text reasonable range of range of current referencing used.
final reference list and in final current academic academic Insufficient, current
according to reference list references. Minimal references. Some academic
designated APA according to referencing style referencing style references.
style. designated APA errors, following errors, but following Incorrect
Thoughtful style. designated APA designated APA referencing style
selection of relevant Comprehensive, conventions both in conventions both in noted. References
current academic relevant, list of text and in final text and in final not used to support
references current academic reference list. reference list. the paper, or do
effectively utilised references References are used References are used not fit the context.
in context to effectively used in in context to to support the Poor clarity, with
support the paper. context to support support the paper. paper, but may not ambiguity issues
High level of clarity the paper. Adequate clarity of always fit the noted. Problematic
of expression, Effective clarity of expression. Well context. writing style that
fluent, engaging expression. Well developed writing Reasonable clarity may include
writing style developed writing style. of expression, but spelling, sentence
style limited range of structure and/ or
language. grammatical errors
Minor errors in that impede clarity
spelling, sentence of meaning and
structure and /or adequate
grammar, but these communication of
do not impede ideas.
clarity or meaning.
Mark _/5 4.5 - 5 4 3.5 2.5 - 3 ≤2

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2.5 General Submission Requirements
Submission
– All assignments must be submitted by the specified due date and time.
– Complete your assignment and follow the individual assessment item instructions on how to submit. You must
keep a copy of all assignments submitted for marking.
Turnitin
– The Turnitin plagiarism prevention system may be used within this unit. Turnitin is accessed via logging into
vUWS for the unit. If Turnitin is being used with this unit, this means that your assignments have to be
submitted through the Turnitin system. Turnitin from iParadigms is a web-based text-matching software that
identifies and reports on similarities between documents. It is also widely utilised as a tool to improve academic
writing skills. Turnitin compares electronically submitted papers against the following:
– Current and archived web: Turnitin currently contains over 24 billion web pages including archived pages
– Student papers: including Western Sydney University student submissions since 2007
– Scholarly literature: Turnitin has partnered with leading content publishers, including library databases,
text-book publishers, digital reference collections and subscription-based publications (e.g. Gale, Pro-
quest, Emerald and Sage)

– Turnitin is used by over 30 universities in Australia and is increasingly seen as an industry standard. It is
an important tool to assist students with their academic writing by promoting awareness of plagiarism.By
submitting your assignment to Turnitin you will be certifying that:
– I hold a copy of this assignment if the original is lost or damaged
– No part of this assignment has been copied from any other student‘Ă‘Źs work or from any other source
except where due acknowledgement is made in the assignment
– No part of the assignment has been written for me by any other person/s
– I have complied with the specified word length for this assignment
– I am aware that this work may be reproduced and submitted to plagiarism detection software programs for
the purpose of detecting possible plagiarism (which may retain a copy on its database for future plagiarism
checking).
Self-Plagiarising
– You are to ensure that no part of any submitted assignment for this unit or product has been submitted by
yourself in another (previous or current) assessment from any unit, except where appropriately referenced, and
with prior permission form the Lecturer/Tutor/Unit Co-ordinator of this unit.
Late Submission
– If you submit a late assessment, without receiving approval for an extension of time, (see next item), you will
be penalised by 10% per day for up to 10 days. In other words, marks equal to 10% of the assignment’s weight
will be deducted from the mark awarded.
– For example, if the highest mark possible is 50, 5 marks will be deducted from your awarded mark for each late
day.
– Saturday and Sunday are counted as one calendar day each.
– Assessments will not be accepted after the marked assessment task has been returned to students.
– This is consistent with Clause 51 of the Western Sydney University’s Assessment Policy - Criteria and Standards-
Based Assessment.
Extension of Due Date for Submission
Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances. To apply for an extension of time, locate an application
form via the Western Sydney University homepage or copy the following link:
https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/forms

Application forms must be submitted to the Unit Coordinator. Requests for extension should be made as early as
possible and submitted within policy deadlines. Appropriate, supporting documentation must be submitted with
the application. An application for an extension does not automatically mean that an extension will be granted.
Assessments will not be accepted after the marked assessment task has been returned to students.

Resubmission Resubmission of assessment items will not normally be granted if requested.

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Application for Special Consideration
It is strongly recommended that you attend all scheduled learning activities to support your learning. If you have
suffered misadventure, illness, or you have experienced exceptional circumstances that have prevented your attendance
at class or your completion and submission of assessment tasks, you may need to apply for Special Consideration
via the Western Sydney University website. http://www.westernsydney.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/
services_and_facilities/special_consideration2 or the Student Centre. Special Consideration is not automatically
granted. It is your responsibility to ensure that any missed content has been covered. Your lecturer will give you
more information on how this must be done.

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 3 Teaching and Learning Activities
Weeks Preparation Workshop Assessments Due
Week 1 Podcast 1: Making the transition to graduate Workshop 1: Transition to Graduate Practice
30-07-2018 practice, Stages and experiences
Professional Series Workshop: Empathy training
Podcast 2: Self-assessment
Are you ready for the transition?

Week 2 Podcast 3: Professional frameworks Workshop 2: Regulating practice - Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple
06-08-2018 Discipline specific NMBA standards choice and self-reflection questions
Professional Series Workshop: Resilience training
Podcast 4: Regulating practice
Nursing & Midwifery Council notifications: Interview preparation
Impairment, performance and conduct

Week 3 Podcast 5: Entering the workforce Workshop 3: Professional practice and maintaining - Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple
13-08-2018 Working within your scope of practice clinical currency choice and self-reflection questions

Podcast 6: Accountability Professional Series Workshop: Working with difficult

The fear of making a mistake people training, challenging situations
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Interview Preparation

Week 4 No classes for all students No classes for all students - Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple
20-08-2018 choice and self-reflection questions
Week 5 Clinical placement for Hawkesbury and Parramatta Clinical placement for Hawkesbury and Parramatta
27-08-2018 students students
No classes for Campbelltown or Liverpool students No classes for Campbelltown or Liverpool students
Week 6 Clinical placement for Hawkesbury and Parramatta Clinical placement for Hawkesbury and Parramatta - Case study - clinical incidents, guided question and
03-09-2018 students students answer format
No classes for Campbelltown or Liverpool students No classes for Campbelltown or Liverpool students
Week 7 Clinical placement for all students Clinical placement for all students
10-09-2018
Week 8 Clinical placement for all students Clinical placement for all students
17-09-2018
Week 9 Clinical placement for all students Clinical placement for all students
24-09-2018
Week 10 Clinical placement for all students Clinical placement for all students
01-10-2018
Week 11 No classes for Parramatta or Hawkesbury students No classes for Parramatta or Hawkesbury students
08-10-2018 Clinical placement for Campbelltown and Liverpool Clinical placement for Campbelltown and Liverpool
students students
 Weeks Preparation Workshop Assessments Due
Week 12 Parramatta students only Parramatta students only
15-10-2018
Podcast 7: The patient as a person Workshop 4: Professional development
Expectations of new graduates
Professional Series Workshop: Self-care in the new
Podcast 8: Preparing for registration graduate year
Portfolios and career development

Week 13 Hawkesbury, Campbelltown and Liverpool students Hawkesbury, Campbelltown and Liverpool students
22-10-2018 only only

Podcast 7: The patient as a person Workshop 4: Professional development

Expectations of new graduates
Professional Series Workshop: Self-care in the new
Podcast 8: Preparing for registration graduate year
Portfolios and career development

Week 14 No classes for all students No classes for all students - Four online weekly participation tasks: Multiple
29-10-2018 choice and self-reflection questions
- Essay: Critical Analysis Essay of a Case Study
Week 15
16

05-11-2018
Week 16
12-11-2018
Week 17
19-11-2018
The above timetable should be used as a guide only, as it is subject to change. Students will be advised of any changes as they become known on the unit’s vUWS site.
4 Learning Resources
4.1 Recommended Readings
Essential Reading
– For a list of readings, please refer to the unit vUWS site under Readings and Resources

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