Course Title: Perform remedial massage musculoskeletal assessments
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term1 2025
Course Code: REHA5010C
Course Title: Perform remedial massage musculoskeletal assessments
School: 535T Social Care and Health
Campus: City Campus
Program: C5426 - Diploma of Remedial Massage
Course Contact: Toby Glennon
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 0320
Course Contact Email: toby.glennon@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Toby Glennon
Bianca Alivizatos
Christine O'Connor
christine.oconnor@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 210
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
There are no pre-requisites for this unit
Course Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to assess clients presenting with symptoms, musculoskeletal conditions or restriction in range of motion. It requires the ability to gather client information, conduct specific tests and bring information together to develop a remedial massage treatment plan. There is a strong focus on functional anatomy.
This unit applies to remedial massage therapists.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
HLTMSG013 Perform remedial massage musculoskeletal assessments |
Element: |
1. Determine scope of client needs. |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1. Clarify client expectations and identify client motivation for wanting to receive remedial treatment. 1.2. Provide clear information about scope and limits of services to be provided, in accordance with legal and ethical considerations. 1.3. Collect an accurate, relevant and organised health record and document in a form which can be interpreted readily by other professionals. 1.4. Recognise needs that are beyond scope of own practice and make referrals to other health care professionals as required. 1.5. Identify and respond to any barriers to information gathering and assessment. 1.6. Seek client information respectfully and sensitively, using purposeful, systematic and diplomatic questions. 1.7. Manage information in a confidential and secure way. |
Element: |
2. Conduct client assessment. |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1. Determine appropriate assessment process. 2.2. Provide information about the assessment process and obtain informed client consent to proceed. 2.3. Follow clinical and therapist hygiene protocols and work health and safety (WHS) standards. 2.4. Respect client dignity and anticipate potential sensitivities. 2.5. Seek client feedback on comfort levels throughout assessment process. 2.6. Assess client through palpation, observation, range of motion (ROM) testing and client's reported outcomes. 2.7. Observe and note any client concerns about pain or health. 2.8. Identify variations of posture or structural function in relation to presenting symptoms. 2.9. Analyse variables of presenting condition through use of functional and special testing. 2.10. Use ongoing discussions with client to gain subjective information as required for assessment. 2.11. Document information from the assessment according to organisational policies and procedures. |
Element: |
3. Develop treatment plan. |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1. Correlate results of assessment with case history. 3.2. Consider available medical information and incorporate into analysis within scope of own practice. 3.3. Identify condition according to stage and related implications. 3.4. Identify and respond to cautions or contraindications for remedial treatments. 3.5. Determine optimum techniques to be used for treatments. 3.6. Use outcomes of assessment and analysis to determine and discuss treatment plan and expected client outcomes. 3.7. Document all proposed treatment plan. |
Element: |
4. Confirm assessment and treatment plan with client. |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1. Discuss assessment, its implications and rationale for treatment with the client. 4.2. Assign and agree treatment priorities and expectations in consultation with the client. 4.3. Respond to client questions and concerns using language the client understands. 4.4. Obtain informed consent for remedial treatment. |
Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Elements of Competency above
Details of Learning Activities
This course is a practical unit where students will observe and then perform assessment processes and treatment techniques on their peers
Teaching Schedule
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AxRx |
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HLTMSH013 - Provide remedial massage musculoskeletal assessments (2445) | ||
HLTMSG014 - Provide remedial massage treatments (2445) |
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SEMESTER 1 |
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Topics |
Assessments |
Week 1 |
AM Introduction to AxRx |
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AM Legal and ethical considerations |
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AM Scope of practice and referal templates |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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PM 9 point flexibility test |
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Week 2 |
AM Global postural observation |
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PM Principles & Performing Active ROM (AROM) |
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Week 3 |
AM Principles & Performing Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Principles & Peforming Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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Week 4 |
AM Formulating a Clinical Impression |
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PM Review ROMs + Clinical Impression |
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Week 5 |
AM Modalities and practical application |
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PM Modalities and practical application |
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Week 6 |
AM Modalieis and practical application |
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PM Review Modalities |
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Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2a (Wednesday) |
Week 7 |
Cervical (Cx) region |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation - bony/muscles |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 8 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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PM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Special Tests |
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Week 9 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2b (Wednesday) |
Week 10 |
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Practical assessment - Task 1a AxRx Practical Cervical |
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Practical Assessment - Cx |
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Week 11 |
Thoracic & Lumbar (Tx & Lx) regions |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation - bony/muscles |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 12 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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AM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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PM Special Tests |
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Week 13 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Week 14 |
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Practical assessment - Task 1b AxRx - Practical Thoracic & Lumbar |
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Practical Assessment - Tx & Lx |
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Week 15 |
Nervous system |
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AM Spinal cord and peripheral nerves |
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AM Dermatomes and sensory testing |
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PM Myotomes and motor testing |
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PM Conditions |
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Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2c (Wednesday) |
Week 16 |
AM Neural tension tests |
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PM Treatment |
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Week 17 |
Assessment Weeks |
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Week 18 |
Assessment Weeks |
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SEMESTER 2 |
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Topics |
Assessments |
Week 1 |
Shoulder Region |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation & bony landmarks |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 2 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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AM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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Week 3 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Week 4 |
Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2d |
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Practical assessment - Task 1c AxRx - Practical Shoulder |
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Practical Assessment - Shoulder |
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Week 5 |
Elbow & Wrist Region |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation & bony landmarks |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 6 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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AM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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Week 7 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Week 8 |
Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2e |
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Practical assessment - Task 1d AxRx - Practical Elbow Wrist |
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Practical Assessment - Elbow & Wrist |
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Week 9 |
Hip Region |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation & bony landmarks |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 10 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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AM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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Week 11 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Week 12 |
Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2e |
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Practical assessment - Task 1e AxRx - Practical Hip |
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Practical Assessment - Hip |
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Week 13 |
Knee & Ankle Region |
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AM Anatomy |
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AM Palpation & bony landmarks |
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PM Conditions |
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PM Subjective examination (LOOTRADIOPS) |
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Week 14 |
AM Postural examination |
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AM Active ROM (AROM) |
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AM Passive ROM (PROM) |
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PM Resisted ROM (RROM) |
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Week 15 |
AM Treatment |
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AM Treatment |
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PM Stretches and correctives |
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PM Putting it all together |
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Week 16 |
Online Quiz - In Class |
Online Quiz - Task 2f |
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Practical assessment - Task 1f AxRx - Practical Knee Ankle |
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Practical Assessment - Knee & Ankle |
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Week 17 |
Assessment Weeks |
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Week 18 |
Assessment Weeks |
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Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
Biel, A, 2019, "Trail Guide to the Body", 2019, Dorn, Robbin Illustrator
Brukner, P & Khan, K, 2017, "Brukner & Khan’s Clinical Sports Medicine", 5th edn, McGraw Hill Education, North Ryde, NSW
Magee, David J., author.; Manske, Robert C., 2021, "Orthopedic Physical Assessment", ElsevierDonnelly, Joseph M., editor.; Fernandez-de-las-Penas, Cesar, editor.; 2019, Travell, Simons & Simons Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: the trigger point manual", Freeman, Jennifer L. editor.; Simons, David G
The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:
The Learning Lab
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops
You are advised to look on Canvas for ongoing updated information
Overview of Assessment
Assessments may include any of the below :
- Case studies
- Quizzes
- Knowledge assessment
- Portfolio assessment
- Role play
- Clinical logbook
- Practical assessments
Assessment Tasks
Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Your knowledge and understanding of course content is assessed through participation in class exercises, and through the application of learned skills, knowledge and insights.
Full assessment briefs will be provided and can be found on CANVAS. There are thirteen (13) summative assessments for this unit, listed below. Feedback will be provided via CANVAS
Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.
To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task.
Every task must be completed satisfactorily for competence to be achieved. Unless otherwise advised you must submit all work via the RMIT issued assessment tool which is located in Canvas for you to populate.Resubmissions are at the discretion of the teacher and/or coordinator. Please see below statement under Resubmission
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates
Assessment Task 1 - Practical regional assessment (6)
Task 1a - Cervical region
Task 1b - Thoracic and Lumbar
Task 1c - Shoulder region
Task 1d - Elbow region
Task 1e - Hip region
Task 1f - Knee and Ankle region
Assessment Task 2 - Online quizzes (7)
There are 7 online knowledge and theory quizzes (a-g)
Results
Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are:
CA: Competency Achieved
NYC: Not Yet Competent
DNS: Did not Submit for Assessment
Resubmissions
You will be given two (2) attempts for each assessment to demonstrate the required skills. If a student does not submit an assessment on the first date provided however submits on the resubmission date this submission will be the only attempt allowed. A third (3rd) attempt can only be offered after discussions between teacher and the Program Coordinator and is not automatic. Resubmissions beyond two (2) attempts are at the discretion of the Program Coordinator and Program Manager after a
conversation is had by the teacher, Program Coordinator and Program Manager. A 3rd attempt consideration will take into account class attendance( 80-100% requirement), interaction within class and communication with the class teacher.
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.
Other Information
Important information regarding Assessment Tasks:
Each individual assessment may only be resubmitted once.
Resubmissions are not automatic and will only be approved at the discretion of the Program Coordinator, after consultation with the teacher.
All students will be contacted with 7 days by their course coordinator in regards to resubmission completion dates.
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises. It is strongly advised and expected that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.If you attend late to a lab/clinic/practical teaching session you must wait to be allowed entrance to the lab/clinic as this can pose a WHS issue, especially if specialised equipment is being used and demonstrated. Teachers are permitted to not allow you to use equipment if formal training has been missed, if this happens you must request a meeting with the teacher and program coordinator to discuss moving forward.
If you miss an assessment or assessable practical class you need to apply for special consideration. The special consideration department will ask you to provide a medical certificate or give other evidence to support your request. Once Special consideration has been applied for the students will wait for the results and then contact their teacher on the outcome of the result Information about your studies:You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students
EXTENSION OR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION
If due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, you are unable to attend on the due date of an assessment (e.g. test, examination, oral, etc.) OR you do attend, but your performance has been affected, you may submit an APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION within 5 working days of the due date. If Special Consideration is granted, you will be given the opportunity to complete/repeat the assessment task at a later date. For advice on this application please visit www.rmit.edu.au/students/specialconsideration or speak to your Program Coordinator.
If due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, you are unable to submit by the due date (e.g. assignment, report, project etc.):
you may submit an APPLICATION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME FOR SUBMISSION OF ASSESSABLE WORK for an extension of time of up to seven (7) calendar days or less. This must be lodged with the Program Coordinator 1 working day before the original due date. If granted, you will have the opportunity to submit up to 7 days later than the original due date. For advice on this application please visit www.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/extension or speak to your Program Coordinator.
Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for SPECIAL CONSIDERATION.
If you require further information, please contact your teacher or Program Coordinator.
Special consideration:
If due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, you are unable to attend on the due date of an assessment (e.g. test, examination, oral, etc.), you may submit an application for special consideration within 5 working days of the due date. If special consideration is granted, you will be given the opportunity to complete/repeat the assessment task at a later date. For advice on this application please visit www.rmit.edu.au/students/specialconsideration or speak to your Program Coordinator.
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
RMIT has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/rights-and-responsibilities/academic-integrity
Course Overview: Access Course Overview