Program Overview

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Macquarie University

CHIR3106 – Chiropractic Science 6

General Information

The unit CHIR3106, Chiropractic Science 6, is a continuation of the theory and practice of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy encountered in CHIR3105. This unit completes the acquisition of a core group of techniques and further explores the hypotheses and scientific rationale relating to chiropractic intervention. The biomechanics of the spine in relation to clinical application are explored in detail, and major themes relating to evidence-based practice (EBP) continue to be developed.

• Unit Convenor and Teaching Staff:
  • Co-convenor: Aron Downie
  • Lecturer, Tutor: Christopher Agius
  • Tutor: Natalie Newman
  • Tutor: Steven Cannon
  • Tutor: Mei Wong
  • Tutor: Simon Rahme
  • Tutor: Camille Rahme
  • Co-convenor: Annie Young
  • Co-convenor: Michael Swain
• Credit Points: 10
• Prerequisites: Admission to BChiroSc and CHIR3105
• Corequisites: None
• Co-badged Status: None
• Unit Description: This unit continues to develop the theory and practice of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy encountered in CHIR3105. This unit completes acquisition of a core group of techniques. The hypotheses and scientific rationale relating to chiropractic intervention is further explored. Biomechanics of the spine in relation to clinical application is explored in detail. Major themes relating to evidence-based practice (EBP) continue to be developed.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Integrate knowledge of spinal and peripheral joint mechanics to evaluate joint function and guide manual therapy interventions.
• Apply theoretical frameworks to the assessment and therapeutic intervention of common musculoskeletal conditions.
• Perform manipulation and mobilisation of all spinal regions safely and effectively.
• Apply research skills to critically evaluate and synthesise evidence for common musculoskeletal conditions, integrating clinical presentation, pathophysiological mechanisms, and prognostic factors to inform person-centred management strategies.

General Assessment Information

• Grade descriptors and other information concerning grading are contained in the Macquarie University Assessment Policy.
• All final grades are determined by a grading committee, in accordance with the Macquarie University Assessment Policy.
• Students will be awarded a final grade and a mark which must correspond to the grade descriptors specified in the Assessment Procedure.
• To pass this unit, students must demonstrate sufficient evidence of achievement of the learning outcomes, meet any ungraded requirements, and achieve a final mark of 50 or better.

Late Submissions

Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, a 5% penalty (of the total possible mark) will be applied each day a written assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends). After the 7th day, a grade of '0' will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted.

Assessment Tasks

• Portfolio: 20%, No hurdle, Due Week 7
• Mastery Registry: 0%, Hurdle, Due Week 9
• Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE): 40%, No hurdle, Due Week 13
• End of Session Written Exam: 40%, No hurdle, Due Exam Period

Portfolio

• Assessment Type: Portfolio
• Indicative Time on Task: 20 hours
• Due: Week 7
• Weighting: 20% Students will submit a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their attainment of all unit learning outcomes.

Mastery Registry

• Assessment Type: Clinical performance evaluation
• Indicative Time on Task: 5 hours
• Due: Week 9
• Weighting: 0% This is a hurdle assessment task. Students must demonstrate a minimum level of competence in key skills.

Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE)

• Assessment Type: Clinical performance evaluation
• Indicative Time on Task: 15 hours
• Due: Week 13
• Weighting: 40% Students will be assessed on their competency by performing a series of chiropractic techniques taught in this unit.

End of Session Written Exam

• Assessment Type: Examination
• Indicative Time on Task: 20 hours
• Due: Exam Period
• Weighting: 40% Students will complete a written test to assess the theoretical material for this unit.

Delivery and Resources

As a student enrolled in this unit, you will engage in a range of face-to-face learning activities, including face-to-face lectures, technique labs (SGTAs), readings, and video resources.

• Unit Delivery:
  • 1 x two-hour lecture per week, delivered face-to-face
  • 2 x two-hour tutorials per week
  • 2-3 hours per week self-directed learning (e.g., LEGANTO reading)
• Recommended Readings:
  • Spinal Technique Workbook - Online available via iLearn
  • Bergmann & Peterson: Chiropractic technique, principles and procedures 3rd Ed.
  • Oatis. Kinesiology "Kinesiology: The Mechanics and Pathomechanics of Human Movement," 3rd edition.
• Technology Used: Active participation in the learning activities throughout the unit requires students to have access to a tablet, laptop, or similar device.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Assessment Procedure
• Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy

Changes from Previous Offering

A Mastery register and Portfolio have been added.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Social inclusion at Macquarie University is about giving everyone who has the potential to benefit from higher education the opportunity to study at university, participate in campus life, and flourish in their chosen field.

FITNESS TO PRACTICE

Students enrolled in this unit are subject to Fitness to Practice (FTP) requirements of the Bachelor of Chiropractic Science. FTP is the demonstration of professional competence, acceptable professional behaviour, freedom from impairment, and compliance with course-specific requirements needed for a student to practice properly and safely throughout their course.

PROFESSIONALISM

In the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, professionalism is a key capability embedded in all courses. As part of developing professionalism, students are expected to attend all small group interactive sessions and show respect for their peers and academic staff.