APPLICATION OF DECISION MAKING - 2025/6

Module Overview

This module will explore the role of decision making within the healthcare environment. It will support students' exploration of their understanding and knowledge of the theory underpinning decision making, judgement and human factors within healthcare, and the potential influential factors including; policy, risk, finances, ethics, the environment, shared decision-making, and the actual and potential consequences of the decision. 

Module provider

School of Health Sciences

Module Leader

DAVIES Annette (Health Sci.)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 6

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Year long

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

None

Module content

Indicative content includes:  

• 
  Decision making theory, 
  


• 
  Pattern recognition,  
  


• 
  Information processing, 
  


• 
  Intrinsic and extrinsic factors 
  


• 
  Policy development, 
  


• 
  Risk assessment and management,  
  


• 
  Legal and ethical issues,  
  


• 
  Human and system factors. 
  


• 
  Financial considerations 
  


• 
  Shared Decision Making 
  

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

 

The assessment strategy is designed to: The assessment strategy is designed to provide the students with the opportunity to identify theoretical frameworks to analyse complexity within real world decisions. They will examine the quality of their decision and take into account factors such as bias, rationality and ethical considerations. 

 

Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of: 

 

An in-depth analysis of a decision made within your area of practice, identifying the key theories of decision making, judgement and the associated human factors. 

2,500 word written Coursework, 100% (addresses learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5). 

 

Formative assessment: 

Student presentation identifying the decision of focus and the key aspects relating to the decision that you will explore further in their summative assessment. 

 

Feedback Students will receive verbal tutor and peer feedback following your formative assessment presentation. There will also be opportunity for feedback through tutorials and class discussions.  

Module aims

• This module aims to:
  
  Enhance students understanding and knowledge of decision making, judgement and human factors management within healthcare.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to: create a dynamic learning environment which will encourage critical thinking. The focus will be on developing professionals who can critically approach a complex decision within their field of practice. 

 

The learning and teaching methods include: 

 

• 
  Lectures and discussion – Q &A 
  


• 
  Experiential group work and discussion  
  


• 
  Debates 
  


• 
  Case presentations 
  


• 
  Seminar Work 
  

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: HCR3017

Other information

The School of Health Sciences is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Employability, Digital Capabilities, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Sustainability, and Resourcefulness and Resilience. This module is designed to allow students to develop knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the following areas: 

Digital Capabilities: 

The module embraces digital capabilities by utilising a hybrid learning approach, blending face-to-face and online experiences with asynchronous learning opportunities providing flexibility for individualised progress, both in understanding of module content and capability of using digital platforms. Furthermore, many students opt to utilise digital technologies when undertaking their formative presentations, thus giving the opportunity for students to increase in confidence and competence of such technologies.  

Employability: 

Employability is core to this module which bridges the theory practice gap through real-world applications. The use of the case study prompt students to analyse and apply knowledge to practical situations, fostering critical thinking. Reflection on these cases encourages self-awareness and continuous improvement, a key skill within the health service work force. The inclusion of an action plan empowers students to identify areas for development, instilling a proactive and goal-oriented mindset essential for success in their future careers. 

Global and Cultural Capabilities: 

The module cultivates global and cultural capabilities by urging students to consider diverse perspectives in decision-making. Whether assessing patient needs or addressing workforce issues, students are encouraged to consider different cultural norms prepares students for working in a health care system with a diverse workforce and patient population. 

Resourcefulness and Resilience: 

Resourcefulness and resilience are woven into the fabric of the module through a holistic approach to decision-making. Encouraging consideration of environmental and financial factors fosters a mindset that seeks creative solutions. The holistic approach teaches students to navigate complexities with adaptability, preparing them to face challenges head-on and emerge stronger in the face of the uncertainties within modern healthcare. 

Sustainability: 

The module addresses sustainability by identifying issues, such as limited resources for staff and services. Discussions on these challenges prompt students to think critically about the long-term impact of their decisions. This awareness instils a sense of responsibility, encouraging students to integrate sustainability principles into their decision-making processes. 

Programmes this module appears in

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2025/6 academic year.