Measurable Student Learning Outcomes
1. (Application Level) Demonstrate proper positioning techniques and equipment setup for abdominal sonography procedures. Students will apply learned techniques to position patients correctly and prepare sonographic equipment, ensuring optimal imaging during abdominal ultrasound procedures. Students will be observed during practical exams or hands-on lab assessments where students perform abdominal imaging procedures. (CSLO #3)
2. (Knowledge Level) Identify and describe anatomical structures observed during upper abdominal sonography. Students will recognize and articulate key anatomical structures in the upper abdomen, such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and gallbladder, as seen in diagnostic ultrasound images. Students will be assess with written exams, quizzes, and practical assessments using ultrasound images where students identify anatomical structures. (CSLO #2)
3. (Comprehension Level) Explain the basic principles of ultrasound physics, including sound wave propagation, frequency, and resolution. Students will be able to explain the fundamental physics behind ultrasound, including how sound waves travel through the body and interact with different tissues to produce diagnostic images. Students will be assessed with written exams and quizzes covering ultrasound physics principles and their application in sonographic imaging. (CSLO #2)
4. (Application Level) Operate sonographic equipment to produce diagnostic images of the upper abdomen, following safety and quality control procedures. Students will demonstrate the ability to use ultrasound equipment effectively to obtain high-quality diagnostic images, adhering to safety protocols and ensuring patient comfort. Students will be assessed with practical exams and in-class activities where students operate ultrasound machines to capture images. (CSLO #3)
5. (Analysis Level) Evaluate the quality of ultrasound images, identifying artifacts or issues that may affect diagnostic accuracy. Students will analyze ultrasound images to determine if they meet diagnostic quality standards, identifying common imaging artifacts or errors that could compromise patient care. There will be Practical assessments where students review ultrasound images and identify quality concerns or imaging errors. (CSLO #4)
6. (Synthesis Level) Develop a patient care plan that addresses ethical and legal considerations in the context of sonographic procedures. Students will create a patient care plan incorporating ethical and legal considerations, such as patient confidentiality, informed consent, and the right to refuse procedures. Students will be assessed with written assignments or case study analyses where students develop patient care plans considering ethical and legal aspects of the profession. (CSLO #1)
7. (Evaluation Level) Assess and resolve ethical dilemmas related to patient care in diagnostic sonography practice, demonstrating professional conduct. Students will demonstrate the ability to assess ethical dilemmas in sonography and resolve them in a manner that aligns with professional conduct and legal standards. Students will be assessed with case study discussions, written assignments, or role-playing scenarios where students address ethical issues in the clinical environment. (CSLO #1)
8. (Knowledge Level) Define key medical terminology related to diagnostic sonography and apply these terms appropriately in a clinical context. Students will learn and correctly use medical terminology relevant to sonography, including terms related to anatomy, procedures, and diagnostic findings, in both written and verbal communications. Students will be assessed with written tests and verbal quizzes where students are required to define and apply medical terminology in relevant scenarios. (CSLO #2)
These Measurable Student Learning Outcomes (MSLOs) focus on developing students' technical proficiency in sonography, ethical understanding, and communication skills, aligning them with both course and program objectives. They reflect a range of cognitive levels based on Bloom's Taxonomy and are designed to ensure students achieve competence in diagnostic medical sonography and are prepared for future clinical practice.