Audiological Pathology, 6 credits

Specific entry requirements according to the programme syllabus of the Study Programme in Audiology, 180 HE credits.

The general aims of the course are that the student should acquire the basic knowledge about the audiogram and pathologies in the auditory and vestibular system.

The expected learning outcomes of the course
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• identify and interpret different audiogram configurations and connect them with various pathological condition
• understand the structure and content of the audiogram
• perform otoscopy under supervision
• report on the etiology of hearing impairments and describe any connection with genetic factors
• report on the distribution and characteristics of hearing impairments
• describe and explain the pathology of the auditory and vestibular system

The following parts are included:

The part  focuses on structure and content of the audiogram. Emphasis is placed on understanding the audiometric data and the interpretation of audiogram to illustrate how various diseases and hearing loss can be represented in the audiogram.

This part also includes otoscopy and knowledge of ear status.

The part provides an epidemiological overview of the prevalence of hearing impairments as well as knowledge of how genetic factors can be linked to hereditary hearing loss.

The part focuses primarily on the pathology of the hearing and vestibular system. Causes and treatment of vertigo are included. Emphasis is placed on how the diseases and hearing impairments is represented in the audiogram, this by patient cases that illustrate various pathological conditions related to audiogram configuration. Medical aspects of noise damage and ototoxicity are discussed.

The part focuses on independent assignments that reflect both theoretical and practical parts in the course. These give training in both compilation and documentation as well as interpretation of, reflection and advanced study in audiological pathology.

Lectures and seminars.

Seminars are compulsory. In case of absence from compulsory part, the student is responsible for contacting course director for complementary assignment.

The course director assesses how absence from compulsory education elements can be compensated for. Before the student has participated in the compulsory parts or has replaced compulsory education, in accordance to the instructions of the course director, the final study results cannot be reported.
Absence from a compulsory education element may lead to that the student can not recover the occasion until next time the course is given.

Part 1: The audiogram, 1,5 hp
-Seminar

Part 2: The etiology and patology of the auditory and vestibular system, 3,0 hp
-Seminar and take-home examination in group 

Part 3: Portfolio, 1,5 hp
-Individual assignment and seminar

For a Pass grade in the course, attendance and active participation in compulsory parts are also required. Students who do not pass a regular examination are entitled to re-sit the examination on five more occasions. Each time the course is offered, one regular examination and two additional examinations are given. Each occasion the student participates in the same test counts as an examination. Supplementary qualification of written assignment is counted as an examination. In case a student is registered for an examination but does not attend, this is not regarded as an examination.

Examination may take place under the previous reading list during a period of one year after the renewal of the reading list. Examination will be provided during a period of two years after a close-down of the course.

The course evaluation will be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the Board of Education. The course evaluation will be carried out both through a written course evaluation at the end of the course, and through an oral course forum at least once in connection with the course, where the students may express their opinions.