BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology)

This unit covers clinical and research perspectives on tinnitus, and evidence-based practice for management of patients with tinnitus.

To provide knowledge and understanding of theories of tinnitus, its assessment and management in the context of evidence-based practice. 

• Epidemiology of tinnitus.
• Theories of tinnitus generation and perception.
• Pathophysical / pathophysiological aspects of tinnitus.
• Methods of assessment and evaluation of tinnitus.
• Psychosocial effects of tinnitus.
• Psychological management of tinnitus.
• Stress management and relaxation therapies.
• Role of amplification and sound therapy in tinnitus management.
• Drug therapies in tinnitus management.
• Professional guidelines for management of adults and children with tinnitus.

The learning processes will include lectures, seminars and workshops, directed reading and private study. 
Formative assessments will be provided using online quizzes. 
There will also be a blended e-learning element to this unit that will include structured directed reading and tasks to be carried out during clinical placement. 

• Describe the current theories of tinnitus generation and perception.
• Describe methods used to assess and evaluate the impact of tinnitus on individuals.
• Explain habituation and psychological management models.
• Describe the role of hearing aids and sound therapy in tinnitus management.
• Describe the role of stress management in tinnitus management.
• Identify the services available to people who experience tinnitus.
• Identify the functions and roles of other healthcare and social care staff involved in the assessment and management of tinnitus. 

• Scholarly conduct including academic reading, critical thinking and analysis, and persuasion through rational argument.
• Review of clinically relevant evidence, critical appraisal of literature, assessment of bias in literature, and grading of evidence.

• Use of IT to assist clinical decisions.
• Use of library and electronic resources.
• Poster preparation and presentation. 

• Independent study
• Public speaking

MCQs (1 hour) - 50%

Poster preparation and presentation - 50%

Formative feedback via MCQ quizzes and individual and group feedback will be provided for poster preparation and presentation.

More specific references will be provided in lectures.

• Baguley and Fagelson “Tinnitus: Clinical and Research Perspectives” (2016)