Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology

Purpose

The Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology is structured in a way that include the latest advances in science and technology in all the major modules; it includes research methods, medical laboratory management skills and genetics study.

Upon completion, qualifying learners will be able to organise operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields, in line with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), which includes good discretion where quality, ethics and safety are concerned. Qualifying learners will be able to apply good business and management skills and also encourage entrepreneurial opportunities. This qualification additionally provides an opportunity to develop marketing and training skills within the Biomedical Sciences sector. Sound theoretical knowledge of genetics that is not covered in the Diploma: Biomedical Technology yet crucial for the current scientific developments will also be covered. This qualification will also enhance the learner's knowledge in integrating laboratory test, results with the pathophysiological conditions. Learners will also gain theoretical knowledge of research methods required in order to conduct research projects at higher levels. This qualification is well aligned with the National Health Act (No. 61 of 2003) which requires the setting, monitoring and enforcing of quality control standards applicable to pathology services to ensure patient safety. The White paper on the National Health Insurance for South Africa also highlights the importance of expanding access to laboratory services. Upon completion, the qualifying learner in Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology will be well rounded to meet the industry and community needs.

Upon completion of the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology, qualifying learners will be able to organise operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields. Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) which includes 'good' discretion where quality, ethics and safety are concerned is an integral component in the qualification. Qualifying learners will be able to apply 'good' business and management skills and also encourage entrepreneurial opportunities. This qualification additionally provides an opportunity to develop marketing and training skills. Sound theoretical knowledge of genetics that is not covered in the National Diploma: Biomedical Technology yet crucial for the current scientific developments will also be covered. This qualification will also enhance the learner's knowledge in integrating laboratory tests, results with the pathophysiological conditions. Learners will also gain theoretical knowledge of research methods required in order to conduct research projects at higher levels.

Rationale

Qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists are specialised health professionals who play an integral role in the healthcare of the society by providing vital information about the patient's state of health. Their input is necessary in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of diseases. The analytical and diagnostic services provided by the Medical Laboratory Scientists require an in-depth scientific knowledge, good reasoning ability, and empathy for humanity. There is a great demand for highly skilled and suitably qualified Medical Laboratory Scientist as a health care resource and there is currently a critical shortage in South Africa. This qualification has been structured to meet that need through the development of competencies associated with this Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7.

The Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology is unique to institutions of technology environment and was designed to address specific niche areas in the field of Biomedical Technology. The qualification is structured in a way that would include the latest advances in science and technology in all the major modules; it will include research methodology and methods, medical laboratory management skills and genetics study.

A comparison has been carried out with national and international higher education institutions. This qualification compares favourably with some international universities. Inputs were received from the advisory committee/board and other stakeholders in the Biomedical Technology discipline, therefore meeting the needs of industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The qualification may be granted, according to policies governing higher education, to learners who have acquired the skills and knowledge without attending formal courses provided they can demonstrate competence in the outcomes of the qualification as required by the fundamental, core and elective areas stipulated in the qualification and Exit Level Outcomes.

An RPL process may also be used to grant credits to learners in which they have developed the necessary competency because of workplace and Work-Integrated Learning.

RPL may also be used by learners who are not in possession of a qualification to gain access to this qualification.

Learners submitting for RPL will be thoroughly briefed prior to assessment, and may be required to submit a portfolio or evidence in the prescribed format to be accessed for formal recognition.

The details of the RPL policy are as follows, presuming no prior accredited learning has taken place

• The learner applies for RPL against module, or part/full qualification at the relevant department.
• RPL officer is appointed from within subject heads (Subject experts) within the department.
• The subject expert meets with the learner to conduct pre-screening (evaluation) to ascertain viability of application based on programme requirements (Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria).
• The learner prepares evidence of work (portfolio of evidence) and/or any other relevant proof of evidence (practical work, assignments and or assessments). The evidence needs to be submitted to the RPL officer for RPL evaluation process.
• The learner then completes a RPL form and submits it to RPL officer.
• An assessor from within the department is then appointed.
• Evidence submitted by the learner is assessed by the assessor. However, additional evidence may be requested.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• An appropriate Diploma, NQF Level 6, 360 Credits.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 80 Credits

• Genetics 1, 10 Credits.
• Research methodology in biomedical Technology 1, 15 Credits.
• Medical laboratory Management 1, 20 Credits.
• Genetics 2, 15 Credits.
• Medical laboratory management 2, 20 Credits.

Elective Modules, 40 Credits (Choose/Select two)

• Advanced haematology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced chemical pathology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced cytology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced histology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Medical Microbiology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Virology 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced cytogenetics 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Immunology 1, 20 Credits.
• Immunohaematology 1, 20 Credits.
• Pharmacology 1, 20 Credits.
• Forensic Technology 1, 20 Credits.
• Marketing in the Health Sector 1, 20 Credits.
• Adult Education and Training in Health Sciences 1, 20 Credits.
• Advanced haematology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced chemical pathology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced cytology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced histology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Medical Microbiology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Virology 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced cytogenetics 2, 20 Credits.
• Advanced Immunology 2, 20 Credits.
• Immunohaematology 2, 20 Credits.
• Pharmacology 2, 20 Credits.
• Forensic Technology 2, 20 Credits.
• Marketing in the Health Sector 2, 20 Credits.
• Adult Education and Training in Health Sciences, 20 Credits.

1. Identify and analyse the problem, then execute critical problem-solving skills as encouraged in medical laboratory management and all the laboratory based electives.
2. Apply principles learnt in genetics, research methodology, laboratory management and all the electives in order to systematically diagnose, interpret and solve well defined medical laboratory problems.
3. Perform procedural design of biomedical components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
4. Define and conduct investigations and experiments of broadly defined problems within human genetics, laboratory management and specific fields of specialisation.
5. Apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern medical laboratory diagnostic tools including management to bring about solution of well-defined medical laboratory problems.
6. Communicate medical laboratory related information effectively, both orally and in writing within the Biomedical (Medical laboratory) context and the health fraternity in general.
7. Demonstrate integrated knowledge, understanding and application of acquired principles as a member or a leader in a diverse team.
8. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
9. Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of practice within own limits of competence.

The following Associated Assessment will assess the Exit Level Outcomes in an integrated manner

• Manage a medical laboratory by integrating advanced knowledge and specific skills to identify, analyse, plan and implement creative solutions.
• Utilise integrated knowledge, principles and practice to systematically diagnose, interpret and solve well defined medical laboratory problems through an appropriate application.
• Execute procedural design according to standards, codes of practice and legislation relevant to biomedical components, systems, works, products or processes.
• Engage with broadly defined problems within specific fields of specialisation (e.g. human genetics, laboratory management) through advanced level investigation and experimentation.
• Manage a medical laboratory by utilising and applying appropriate techniques, resources, problem solving skills and modern medical laboratory diagnostic tools.
• Effectively, skillfully and ethically communicate information, both verbally and in writing within the Biomedical laboratory and health network context.
• Incorporate and apply acquired leadership and managerial specific knowledge, skills and principles to function within or lead a diverse team.
• Utilise well-developed learning skills to engaging in independent and life-long learning.
• Demonstrate an understanding and capability to apply professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of practice within the health network.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment of modules in the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology will be in accordance with the assessment policy of the institution. The learning guides for the modules contain the module outcomes and assessment criteria which must be satisfied in order to pass.

The lecturer will make use of summative, formative assessment strategies to develop the learners' competence in this qualification. The formative assessments will be formal and informal. More emphasis will be placed on application of knowledge at this level. Informal formative assessments will typically include discussions, quizzes, feedback sessions, and peer assessments, among others. The formal formative assessments will include class tests, class presentations, and assignments. Summative assessments will typically include semester tests (usually three per semester, 100 marks each), and a final examination at the end of the semester (three hours, 180 marks). All assessments are at the appropriate NQF level (in this case, NQF Level 7).

A range of assessment methods will be employed to ensure that assessment is educationally sound, appropriate, all outcomes assessed and the criteria of validity, reliability, authenticity and feasibility are met.