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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Clinical Practice 1
Module Code TRE1025
Faculty Science & Health School Health & Human Performance
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 15
Description

This module provides students with supervised clinical experience, developing their practical and professional skills in patient assessment, treatment, and management. Under the guidance of CORU-registered Practice Educators, students will apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings, aligning with CORU’s Code of Conduct and Standards of Proficiency. This 7-week placement occurs at the end of Year 1, consolidating academic learning through hands-on experience. Students will refine their clinical reasoning, gain insight into multidisciplinary teamwork, and understand the organisational and ethical aspects of physiotherapy practice. The placements enhance competency in safe, effective, and evidence-based physiotherapy management. Students will also complete a Learning Portfolio, fostering reflective practice, which is submitted one week post-placement.

Learning Outcomes



WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Clinical placement245Direct Patient Contact. In-Service Training. Reflective Practice. Family /MDT Meetings Case conferences Ward rounds. Case Presentations. Home Visits MDT Joint sessions
Independent Study130Independent student study
Total Workload: 375
Section Breakdown
CRN30028Part of TermSemester 3
Coursework100%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale50PASSPass Both ElementsN
Resit CategoryRC2Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorCliona O'SullivanModule Teacher
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Practice assessment record The Clinical Assessment Form (CAF) evaluates students’ clinical competencies, professional behaviour, and practical skills while on clinical placement. It ensures students demonstrate safe, effective, and evidence-based physiotherapy practice while adhering to CORU’s Standards of Proficiency. The form assesses patient assessment, management, communication, documentation and professionalism. It provides structured feedback to support student development, ensuring they meet required competency levels for professional practice.80%n/a
Professional PortfolioThe learning portfolio features a Clinical Skills Log to track student progression in development of professional skills and competencies, paired with a Reflective Practice Assignment. The Reflective Practice Assignment aims to develop students' ability to critically evaluate their clinical experiences, enhancing self-awareness, clinical reasoning, and professional growth. It encourages reflection on patient interactions, decision-making, and challenges, promoting continuous learning and evidence-based practice.20%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Clinical Observation & Participation
Engage in physiotherapy assessment and treatment procedures under supervision.

Supervised Patient Management
Conduct assessments and deliver treatments while developing clinical reasoning skills.

Documentation & Record-Keeping
Learn accurate documentation of assessments, treatments, and patient outcomes.

Referral Processes & Data Management
Understand referral pathways, patient record access, and data storage in healthcare.

Physiotherapy Department Operations
Gain insight into the administrative and operational aspects of physiotherapy services in different settings.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Observe and understand the roles of healthcare professionals and the importance of teamwork.

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None
Other Resources

  • 1: CORU – Standards of Proficiency for Physiotherapists,
  • 420081: 1, Health Service Executive (HSE) – National Clinical Programmes,
  • 420082: 1, World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) – Professional Practice Guidelines,

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