POSTGRADUATE INSTITUTE OF MEDICINE

UNIVERSITY OF COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

PROSPECTUS

master of Science (mSc)

In
humAN NuTRITION
2012

BOARD OF STUDY IN
COMMUNITY MEDICINE

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine - University of Colombo

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

CONTENTS

page

1. Background to the programme

2. Objectives and course outcomes

3. Curriculum

4. Training Structure

5. Admission criteria

6. Selection process

7. Intake

8. Duration of training

9. Format of training programme

10. Identification of trainers

11. Format of assessments

12. Recommended reading

11

Annex 1 Details of learning modules

12

Annex 2 Details of practical/clinical components

20

Annex 3 Portfolio

21

Annex 4- Direct observation of practical skills (DOPS)

23

Annex 5- Progress report form

24

Annex 6- Marking grid for the assessment of portfolio

26

Annex 7- Portfolio based viva examination

27

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Instituteof Medicine-University of Colombo

PROSPECTUS OF MSc (Human Nutrition) TRAINING PROGRAMME
The Board of Study in Community Medicine (hereafter referred to as the Board) will conduct
a training programme leading to the postgraduate degree of M.Sc. (Human Nutrition).
1. BACKGROUND TO THE PROGRAMME
In Sri Lanka, nutritional problems have continued to remain as serious public health
problems as well as problems of individuals.
From a public health perspective, malnutrition remains a serious problem among Sri Lankans
especially among children, pregnant and lactating mothers. Overall, the nutritional status of
children under 5 years in Sri Lanka has not shown much improvement during the past ten
years. A national level study conducted in 2009, reported that 19.2 percent of children were
stunted, 21.6 percent underweight and 11.7 percent were wasted compared with 18.4 percent
stunting, 22.8 percent underweight and 15.5 percent wasting reported in 2000 (DHS 2000).
Percentage of low birth weight babies has continued to be about 16 18 percent over the past
decade. Relationship of low birth weight to later life chronic diseases is a matter of concern.
Sri Lanka is beginning to experience the double burden of malnutrition with about 1.2
million Sri Lankan adults being overweight and among schoolchildren this number being
approximately 0.4 million. Overweight and obese individuals have a greater risk of
developing Non-Communicable Disease (NCD): diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke,
cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer. NCDs, often precipitated by poor
nutrition, presently account for 60% of global deaths and 46% of the global burden of
diseases. It is predicted that by 2020, NCDs and obesity are likely to cause 73% of all deaths
and 60% of all disease.
From an individual perspective, there are many clinical situations where dietary advice is
required not only as a focus on secondary prevention but also in actual management of the
individual patients. Such inputs require dietatic instructions to prevent complications of the
clinical condition and need to be precise and best delivered by the clinicians. Dieticians are a
category of personnel trained for dietary management of patients. However, they are not
available widely, hence the need for the medical professionals to develop their competencies
in prescribing diets to be strengthened.There are many clinical conditions where diet therpy
is an important component of patient management practices. A medical professional who is
trained in both public health nutrition and clinical nutrition could play a key role in handling
common nutritional problems in both field and clinical settings.
In view of the non-availability of a comprehensive programme to train medical professionals
in nutrition, this course is planned to develop a group of professionals who are competent in
undertaking programmes aimed at reducing the problems of malnutrition at the community
level as well as focus on the nutritional management of individual patients or groups of
patients with established disease.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Instituteof Medicine-University of Colombo

2. OBJECTIVES AND COURSE OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, the trainee should be able to:

demonstrate an advanced knowledge of public health and clinical nutrition, at

biological, social and policy levels.
plan and conduct an assessment of nutritional problems in population and population
sub-groups.
interpret and synthesise different types of data used to assess nutritional problems.
demonstrate an adequate knowledge in the management of nutritional aspects of
common clinical conditions.
assess critically, select and apply a range of appropriate research skills and techniques
and be able to evaluate critically the findings of scientific studies of public health and
clinical nutrition.
identify and formulate appropriate responses and intervention strategies to address
nutritional issues, taking into account the public health and social policy contexts, and
apply knowledge of effective teamwork and communication skills to solve problems
and achieve goals.

The duration of the course will be one year. The contents of the course will be divided among
3 Terms.

3. CURRICULUM
The MScin Human Nutrition (M.Sc-HN) training programme shall consist of a taught
component, a clinical/practical component and a portfolio.
There shall be 14 modules in total: 10 modules in the taught component; one module each for
clinical attachment, community attachment and laboratory attachment; and the portfolio. The
number of teaching/learning hours and the credit points are listed below. The syllabi of the
taught modules are described in Annex 1. The syllabus of the practical/clinical component is
described in Annex 2.

Module No.

MSc-HN-01
MSc-HN-02

MSc-HN-03

MSc-HN-04

Lecture Hrs

Small group
classes hrs

Credit hrs

30

15

2.5 credits

Basic statistics

30

15

2.5 credits

Basic epidemiology
and demography

30

15

2.5 credits

30

30

3 credits

Name of the
Module
Introduction to the
Study of Nutrition
and Principles of
nutrition

Basics of research
and scientific
reasoning

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

Module No.
MSc-HN-05
MSc-HN-06
MSc-HN-07

MSc-HN-08
MSc-HN-09
MSc-HN-10

MSc-HN-11
MSc-HN-12
MSc-HN-13

Name of the
Module
Public Health
Nutrition
Nutrition using life
cycle approach
Planning and
management
Health promotion
and behaviour
change
communication
Special topics
Clinical Nutrition

Lecture Hrs

Small group
classes hrs

Credit hrs

150

15

10.5 credits

75

15

5.5 credits

75

15

5.5 credits

15

15

1.5 credits

45
150

15
30
Clinical/
Practical
180

3.5 credits
11.0 credits

Clinical attachment
Community
attachment
Laboratory
attachment
Portfolio

90
45
Contact hrs
150

Total

4.0 credits
2.0 credits
1.0 credit

5.0 credits
60 credits

4. TRAINING STRUCTURE
The training programme shall include teaching sessions namely lecture, small group
discussions, provision of reading material, video and sound clips, slide presentations, and
may include any other instructional material designated by the Board. In addition there will
be attachments for clinical, community and laboratory settings.
The students shall undertake preparation of a portfolio under prescribed guidelines. Each
student will be allocated to a supervisor approved by the Board.

5. ADMISSION CRITERIA
a) A medical degree registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council and
b) One year of internship recognized by the Sri Lanka Medical Council and
c) One year of full-time post internship work experience in the health sector, recognized
by the Board of Study in Community Medicine
6. SELECTION PROCESS
a) The PGIM will place an advertisement to select a pre-determined number of
candidates (as determined each year by the Board of Study in Community Medicine).

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

b) Trainees are selected based on the overall mark obtained at the Qualifying
Examination, which is a Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) paper.
c) The MCQ paper, which has 60 MCQs of the multiple true / false type, to be answered
in 180 minutes, includes questions on testing knowledge of basic Nutrition at
undergraduate level.
d) A candidate must obtain a minimum of 50% of the mark in order to qualify for
selection to the training programme.
e) Candidates will be selected to the course according to rank order of marks at the
selection examination and the number of positions available.

7. INTAKE
Thist will depend on the needs and availability of training facilities. The information will be
stated in the advertisement.

8. DURATION OF TRAINING
12 months full time
9. FORMAT OF TRAINING PROGRAMME
The training programme will consist of two components: a 9-month taught course followed
by 3 months of practical/clinical training. During the practical/clinical component a portfolio
and case book (Annex 3) shall be maintained by the trainees. This will be followed by two
weeks of study leave and an end-of-course examination (MScExamination).
The various components of the course consist of learning activities that comprise the
following credit hours as given in the Section 3:
Taught course
48 credit hours
Clinical/Practical training
7 credit hours
Portfolio/case book
5 credit hours
Total
60 credit hours
On the basis that one credit is equivalent to 15 hours of lectures or 30 hours of practical
classes or 45 hours of field, clinical and research work, these contact hours in the taught
course are the equivalent of 48 credits.
Trainees will be sent to training sites approved by the Board of Study.
Clinical/practical Training (content and details in Annex 2) -will consist of
a) hospital clinical/ ward based training
b) community based training
c) laboratory based practical training

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b
Training sites for hospital clinical / ward based will include the following institutions:
Lady Ridgeway Childrens Hospital (LRH)
Burn Unit of National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL)
Intensive care unit of NHSL and LRH
Medical and surgical Wards in NHSL
Diabetes clinic in NHSL
Colombo South Teaching Hospital
Castle Street Hospital for Women
De Soysa Maternity Hospital
Rehabilitation Hospital, Ragama
Cancer hospital, Maharagama
Any General or Base hospital recognized by the Board of Study
Diabetes Association of Sri Lanka
Any other training center in the State or non State sector approved by the Board of
Study
Training sites for community and laboratory based components will include following
institutions:
Medical Research Institute
Industrial Technology Institute (ITI) or any other laboratories in the State or non State
sector approved by the Board of study
Selected Medical Officer of Health areas
On the basis that 45 hours of such clinical/practical training is equivalent to one credit, this
amounts to 7 credit hours.
During the clinical attachments following areas will be included:
Nutrition assessment in hospital settings and relevant nutrition therapy
Management of nutrition aspect of selected diseases categories e.g. Diabetes, Heart
disease, Renal disease, Arthritis, Burns, Hypertension, cancer etc.
Critical care
Nutrition in surgical patients
Overweight and obesity
Intensive care; total and parental nutrition
Severe acute under-nutrition
Drug nutrient interaction
Food allergy
During the community attachments following areas will be included.
Assessment of nutrition status in a community
Planning and implementation of nutrition interventions
Identification of resources / programmes available for improvement of nutritional
status
Assessment of effectiveness of interventions at community level
Nutrition education including conduct of such programme at different levels

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b
During the laboratory attachments following areas will be included
Role of laboratory in assessment of nutritional problems and monitoring of
interventions
Exposure to relevant laboratory procedures quality control, specimen collection and
transfer etc.
During the practical/clinical training, necessary Direct Observation of Practical Skills will be
done using the form in Annex 4. Supervising officer will be provided with a structured
format to make his/her observations on the performance of the participants. These completed
formats have to be submitted to the Coordinator of the MSc-HN on completion of the
relevant training activity.
During the practical/clinical training it is necessary for the trainer to submit a progress report
at the completion of training in the relevant section using the form in Annex 5.
10. IDENTIFICATION OF TRAINERS
All trainers have to be recognized by the Board of Study in Community Medicine. Those
with relevant postgraduate degrees in Community Medicine, Biochemistry, Physiology,
Paediatrics, Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetrics or other relevant clinical
disciplines will be considered eligible. Those with at least three years experience after
obtaining a Doctoral degree or a Masters degree (obtained after a full-time course of study of
at least of one academic years duration with a research component by way of thesis /
dissertation), in the above mentioned fields of study shall also be considered.
11. FORMAT OF ASSESSMENTS
Assessment of trainees will include in-course assessment and end-of-course examination.
A. In-course assessment
1) Formative in-course assessment will include a portfolio compiled as stipulated by the
Board of Study (Annex 3). This portfolio must be submitted to the PGIM at the end of
the 3 months of practical/clinical training as a pre-requisite to sit for the end-of-course
examination
2) Trainers will be required to send progress reports on the trainees (Annex 5).
Unsatisfactory reports will result in:
(i) Extension of training period and / or
(ii) Discontinuation from the training programme
3) 80% participation at lectures, small group classes (tutorials, seminars, demonstrations)
and practical / clinical training sessions
B. Eligibility to sit for end-of-course examination (MSc examination)
In order to be eligible to sit for the final examination, trainees must
1) Show at least 80% attendance in

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

a. the classes conducted in each of the 10 modules in the taught course
b. the period of clinical/practical training
c. the weekly classes conducted during the period of clinical/practical training
2) Obtain satisfactory progress reports. The reports have to be sent by the trainers of
practical/clinical training using the form in Annex 5. These should be acceptable to
the Board.
3) Submit a duly completed portfolio before a date stipulated by the Board.
C. End-of-course examination (MSc examination)
An end-of-course examination will be conducted at the end of the training period. It will have
the following 4 components:
C1.Theory component with a multiple choice question paper and a structured essay
question paper
C2. Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE)
C3. Assessment of the Portfolio
C4. Portfolio based Viva
C1-Theory component
C.1.1. The Multiple Choice Question paper will have 60 questions to be answered in a
total of 3 hours. This will consist of 50 multiple true / false type and 10 single best answer
type (SBA) type questions. The range of marking for MCQ will be 0 to 5 and there shall be
negative marking within the questions in true/false type but will not to be carried forward.
Each correct answer in SBA will carry 3 marks and there shall be no negative marking in
SBA type. The Marks will be apportioned as follows:
Number of questions
Multiple true/false type
Single Best Answer type
Total

50
10
60

Marks
%
80
20
100

C.1.2. The Structured Essay Question paper will have 6 questions, and all questions to be
answered in 3 hours. This paper will get a total of 100 marks.
C.2. The OSPE will assess practical competencies listed in the curriculum in relation to
practical / clinical training. There will be 10 stations. The time allocated to each station shall
be 5 minutes and the total duration shall be 50 minutes. In the live stations there will be two
examiners who shall mark independently. In other stations there may be one examiner or
none if answers are documented in an answer paper only to be corrected later by examiners.
This will include 4 live stations with patients/information relevant to clinical situations. In
other six there will be photos, models, graphs and instruments. The OSPE component will
get 100 marknt of the Portfolio: The Portfolio will be assessed by two examiners with the
use of a marking grid (Annex 6). The assessment of portfolio will get 50 marks.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

Colombo
C.4. The Portfolio based viva examination will be conducted by two examiners and will be
marked out of 50 (Annex 7). b). Each candidate will be examined for 20 minutes. The
portfolio viva will get 50 marks.
The final computation of marks shall be as follows:
Examination component
MCQ paper
Structured essay question paper
OSPE
Assessment of the Portfolio
Portfolio based viva
Total

Marked out of
100
100
100
50
50
400

Percentage of
final mark
25
25
25
12.5
12.5
100

D.
Requirements to pass the MSc Examination
To pass the MSc in Human Nutrition candidates will be required to obtain the following:
A total aggregate minimum of 50% for the all component of the examination, and
A minimum of 45% for the theory component (MCQ and Structured essay question
paper) and
A minimum of 45% for the practical component (OSPE)

A minimum of 45% for the assessment of Portfolio

A minimum of 25% for the Portfolio based viva

A candidate must complete the MScwithin 6 attempts in not more than 8 years from the date
of the first attempt at the MScexamination, unless the Senate has permitted extension for
valid reasons.
E. Repeat attempts
A candidate who has obtained a total average of at least 50% for the examination, and has
also obtained at least 45% in either the theory OR the practical component, but has failed the
examination because he / she has not obtained the requisite minimum mark in only one
component, shall be permitted to sit for that component alone in his / her next attempt at the
examination. In such a case, the total mark for the repeat examination shall be calculated
using the marks obtained in the completed component from the previous examination, along
with the marks from the repeated component. A candidate shall be given this concession for
only two subsequent repeat examinations. In the event that a candidate does not pass the
repeat examination, he / she shall have to sit for the entire MSc end-of-course examination
again after the 2 attempts. A candidate is eligible for 6 attempts within 8 years of the first
attempt.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

10

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b
12. RECOMMENDED READING
1. Michael J. Gibney, Hester H. Vorster, Frans J. Kok. INTRODUCTION TO
HUMAN NUTRITION (The Nutrition Society Textbook). 2005
2. Michael J. Gibney. CLINICAL NUTRITION (The Nutrition Society Textbook)
2005
3. T. W. Wickramanayaka. NUTRITION DURING LIFECYCLE. 2006
4. Alpers, Stenson and Bier, MANUAL OF NUTRITIONAL THERAPIES, 3rd Ed,
1995
5. Hark & Morrison, MEDICAL NUTRITION & DISEASE, 3rd Ed., 2003
6. Jeukendrup, SPORTS NUTRITION: AN INTRODUCTION
ENERGY PRODUCTION AND PERFORMANCE,

TO

7. Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, MEDICINE AND

SCIENCE IN SPORTS AND EXERCISE,
8. Kopple & Massary, NUTRITIONAL MANAGEMENT OF RENAL DISEASE,
2nd Ed, 2003
9. La Valle, et al, NATURAL THERAPEUTICS POCKET GUIDE, Lexi-Comp, Inc,
2000-2001
10. Jayatissa R, OPTIMUM NUTRITION FOR BEATING DIABETES, 2010.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

11

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

ANNEX 1-DETAILS OF LEARNING MODULES

Module 1 - Introduction to the Study of Nutrition and Principles of

nutrition
Sub Units

1.1 Energy, Macro and micronutrient requirements

1.2 Overview of metabolism and the role of macro and
micronutrients in metabolism
1.3 the assessment of nutritional status
1.4 the current scientific and public health issues concerning
human nutrition, in both developing and developed countries.
1.5 Dietetics

Sub
Unit

Lesson objectives

1.1
Energy,
Macro
and
micronutrient
requirements

(i) describe the basis of the classification

of micronutrients as type I or type II;
(ii) understand and describe the basis of
the clinical effects of micronutrient
deficiencies, particularly iron, vitamin A
and
iodine;

1.2 Overview
of metabolism
and the role of
macro
and
micronutrients
in metabolism

(iii) demonstrate an understanding of the

difficulties in assessing micronutrient
status of individuals and populations, in
particular for iron, zinc, vitamin A and Bvitamins;

1.3 the
assessment of
nutritional
status

(iv) assess critically different public

health
interventions
to
improve
micronutrient intakes, including dietary
diversification, supplementation and
fortification with individual and multiple
micronutrients;
(v) evaluate critically current research of
selected topics in micronutrient nutrition;
(vi) describe the role of micronutrients in
bone
health;
(vii) appreciate the role of non-nutrient,
biologically active ingredients in food in
maintaining "optimum health".

1.4 the current

scientific and
public health
issues
concerning
human
nutrition, in
both
developing and
developed
countries
1.5 Dietetics

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures,
group-work
activities,
discussions
with invited
experts and
critical
review of
key papers

12

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

Module 2 - Basic statistics

Sub Units: 2.1 basic statistical methods used in medical and public health
research
Sub
Unit
Basic
statistical
methods
used
in
medical and
public health
research

Lesson Objectives

(i) describe and apply statistical

methods in epidemiology and
population health, and in their own
disciplines;
(ii) demonstrate skills in handling data
on a computer and otherwise, and in
deriving and presenting quantitative
results using appropriate tables, figures
and summaries;
(iii) explain the nature of sampling
variation and the role of statistical
methods in quantifying it, and be able
to calculate confidence limits and
evaluate hypotheses;
(iv) identify the key features of the
normal and binomial distributions;
(v) identify the key features of
methods appropriate for sampling
surveys;
(vi) select appropriate statistical
methods for the analysis of simple data
sets and apply them on computer using
STATA statistical software;
(vii) accurately interpret and assess the
output from statistical analyses carried
out on a computer in relation to
research and other questions being
asked;
(viii) present and discuss the findings
from statistical analyses in a clear,
concise and logical manner.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures, group-work
activities, discussions
with invited experts
and critical review of
key papers

13

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

Module 3 - Basic epidemiology and demography

Sub Units: 3.1 basic concepts and methods of epidemiology.
Sub
Unit

Lesson Objectives

Basic concepts and

methods of
epidemiology.

(i) understand and apply

measures of disease incidence
and prevalence, and measures of
effect (e.g. relative and absolute
risk);
(ii) demonstrate understanding
of
the
basic
principles
underlying
different
study
designs,
including
crosssectional, cohort, case-control
and
intervention
studies;
(iii) assess strengths and
limitations of different study
designs;
(iv)
identify
problems
interpreting
epidemiological
data: chance, bias, confounding
and
effect
modification;
(v) be aware of criteria for
assessing
causality;
(vi) assess advantages and
disadvantages
of
different
preventive strategies, including
the use of measures of public
health impact to anticipate their
potential
benefits;
(vii) assess strengths and
limitations of different sources
of epidemiological data on
health status and health service
utilization in both industrialized
and developing countries

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures, group-work
activities, discussions
with invited experts
and critical review of
key papers

14

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

Module 4 - Basics of Research and scientific reasoning

Sub Units:
Sub
Unit

Lesson Objectives

(i) demonstrate an understanding of

key concepts in research
methodology;
(ii) identify appropriate research
designs for a range of research
questions in health;
(iii) evaluate the strengths and
weaknesses of different research
designs and data collection methods;
(iv) critically evaluate published
research studies;
(v) demonstrate an understanding of
how research findings can be used in
public health disciplines.

(i) demonstrate understanding of

concepts underlying the design of
epidemiological studies;
(ii) select an appropriate study design
for a given epidemiological scenario
and provide a rationale for this;
(iii) understand and conduct stratified
analyses of data from epidemiological
studies;
(iv) appreciate the rationale and use of
multivariable analyses of data from
epidemiological studies;
(v) explain basic approaches to the
design and interpretation of
multivariable analysis models;
(vi) critically appraise the design,
analysis and interpretation of studies
conducted by other investigators;
(vii) communicate effectively with
those involved in conducting public
health research.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures,
together
with
essential
reading, provide the
structure
and
overview of key
concepts. seminars
are based around
critical reading of a
selection of science
articles; the others
are practical sessions
in which students
develop skills in
refining
research
questions,
interviewing,
questionnaire design
lectures,
computer
practical
sessions
(using SPSS), a
problem-based
exercise on study
design, and paper
review
discussion
sessions.

15

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

Module 5 - Public Health nutrition
Sub Units 5.1 Home Economics
5.2 State policies and global policies
5.3 MSc Com. Med course
5.4 Food safety and security
5.5 Intervention strategies
5.6 Food advertising, labeling
5.7 Trends and issues of nutritional problems
5.8 Lifestyle management
Sub
Unit

5.8
Lifestyle
manage
ment

Lesson Objectives

(i) the processes of ingestion, digestion, absorption,

metabolism, and utilization of nutrients and other food
constituents by the body;
(ii) the principles of setting, defining and meeting
macro- and micro-nutrient requirements;
(iii) the factors that influence dietary patterns and food
choices, including social, cultural and economic
determinants;
(iv) the genetic and epigenetic (infection and other
environmental factors) determinants of nutritional
needs;
(v) the available methods for the assessment of food
availability, dietary intake, food quality and dietary
patterns relevant to health and nutritional status;
(vi) the available methods for the assessment of
nutritional status (clinical, anthropometric,
biochemical, functional) [select examples only as
these are also covered in other modules];
(vii) the processes involved in establishing nutrient
recommendations and food based dietary guidelines
for optimal health and nutrition of populations groups;
(viii) global trends in food supply and dietary patterns,
and their impact on health and nutrition of
populations.
(i) demonstrate a systematic understanding of
the relationship between nutrition and chronic
disease and the likely mechanisms involved;
(ii) assess the strengths and weaknesses of
epidemiological methods available to assess
nutrition-disease
relationships;
(iii) critically evaluate the validity of consensus
views of common nutrition-related chronic
diseases through the appraisal of the
epidemiological
evidence;
(iv) critically evaluate strategies to prevent
nutrition-related chronic diseases and the
evidence-base required to implement policy.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures,
group
participation
, discussions
with invited
experts and
computer
practical.

lectures given
by topic experts
and in-class
group work and
feedback. There
will also be
student-led
presentations
following a
critical review
of key evidence

16

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

5.7
Trends
and
issues of
nutrition
al
problems

(i) identify key areas of public health;

(ii) demonstrate an understanding of selected
issues of current and global importance in
public health.

Module 6 - Nutrition - using life cycle approach

Sub Units
6.1 Requirements, issues, management on Infant and young child,
School children, Adolescents, Youths, Adults, Pre pregnant women, Pregnant women,
Lactating mothers, Premenopausal, Menopausal, Elderly
Sub
Unit
6.1
Requirements,
issues,
management
Infant and
young child,
School
children,
Adolescents,
Youths,
Adults, Pre
pregnant
women,
Pregnant
women,
Lactating
mothers,
Premenopausal
, Menopausal
and
Elderly

Lesson Objectives

1. Participants will consider nutritional

requirements in pregnancy, the
determinants of birth weight, the
consequences of low birth weight and
the impact of prenatal supplementation
programmes to improve birth weight.

Learning
Context
(Method)
Lectures, group
participation, and
discussions with
invited experts.

2. Participants will examine the

nutritional requirements of lactation
and the determinants of low breast
milk output. Supplementation
programmes to improve lactation will
be critically reviewed.
3. Infant and child feeding practices in
developed and developing countries
will be outlined and interventions to
improve these practices will be
discussed. The role of breastfeeding
features prominently in this module.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

17

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

Module 7 - Planning and management

Sub Units 7.1 Monitoring and evaluation
7.2 Planning

Sub
Unit

Monitoring
and
evaluation
Planning

Lesson Objectives

(i) review different theoretical approaches

and concepts used in policy analysis;
(ii) analyse the political system within
which policies are made and the contextual
factors that lead to policy change;
(iii) identify the different arenas involved in
health policy, the actors within these arenas,
and the key features of processes of policy
identification, formulation, and
implementation;
(iv) plan how to use in research and/or
decision-making the policy analysis
framework introduced during the module.

Learning
Context
(Method)
lectures, linked
to
fortnightly
seminars of one
and a half hours,
which will be
based on case
studies
and
student led

Module 8 - Health promotion and behaviour change communication

Sub
Unit

Lesson
Objectives
(i)
the
historical
development of health
promotion
(ii)
various
approaches to the
definition of health;
(iii)
proposed
mechanisms
to
promote health via
various
social
interventions;
(iv) the way in which
theories and principles
from
history,
psychology,
sociology,
ethics,
epidemiology,
biology,
and
communication and
marketing theory have
been used to inform
health promotion.

Learning Context
(Method)
Lectures and seminars. The
seminars will consist of group
work, presentation of material
by students and discussion

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

18

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

Module 9 - Special topics

Sub Units 9.1 Sports
9.2 Nutrition in emergencies
9.3 Disables
9.4 Nutrient drug interactions

Sub
Unit

Lesson Objectives

(i) understand the contexts in which

different
emergencies
arise;
(ii) be familiar with the roles of
organizations
involved
in
emergencies;
(iii) identify the most appropriate
nutrition interventions in different
emergency
contexts;
(iv) apply the use of nutritional
information
in
emergencies;
(v) become familiar with up-to-date
interventions
and
survey
methodologies;
(vi) understand the controversies
and challenges associated with
policy change in the emergency
setting.

Learning
Context
(Method)
Combination
of
lectures and active
student
participation
in
case presentations
and discussions.

Module 10 - Clinical Nutrition and dietetics

Sub Units 10.1 Dietetics, 10.2 Critical care, 10.3 Burns, 10.4 Renal
diseases, 10.5 NCDs, 10.6 Trauma, 10.7 Postsurgical, 10.8 HIV, TB,
CANCER, Chemotherapy, dementia, psychiatric

Sub
Unit

Lesson Objectives

Nutritional
Aspects in
Diseases

Management and prevention

Nutrient Nutrient and

Drug - Nutrient
Interactions,
Contraindication
s and Risk
Management

Risk management for the clinical

nutritionist includes knowledge of
-Nutrient - nutrient interactions and
reactions
-Nutrient - drug interactions and
reactions

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Learning
Context
(Method)
Combination of
lectures
and
active student
participation in
case
presentations
and discussions.

19

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

ANNEX 2-DETAILS OF PRACTICAL/CLINICAL COMPONENT

Clinical attachment:
During the practical/clinical training, trainees should be able to manage to carry out the
following tasks:
1. Participate in the daily ward round of the allocated clinicians and checking of
nutritional managements of patients
2. Observe the daily work of the diet clerk and kitchen staff
3. Interpret clinical information in relation to nutrition management for nursing staff and
participate in decision regarding management and care with medical and nursing staff

Community attachment:
During the training, trainees should be able to manage to carry out the following tasks:
1. To plan and implement intervention/s to improve the health of the community
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention/s
Tasks:
1. To describe the health status of a community
2. To assess the health needs of a community and the resources available for health
promotion and health care which can be utilized to improve their health
3. To identify the factors which influence health-related behaviour and the use of health
care services
4. To plan and implement intervention/s to improve the health of the community
5. To evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions
6. To develop skills that are necessary for carrying out community work: leadership,
managerial, co-operation, collaboration, communication, negotiation, critical
thinking, etc.

Laboratory attachment:
This training will cover an introduction to laboratory analysis for the nutrition practice. The
student will be responsible for obtaining required texts. Information on how to contact
various testing laboratories to obtain knowledge on the tests including interpretation,
obtaining specimen kits, order requisitions and pricing will be given. Specific tests pertinent
to individual diseases or evaluations will be covered throughout the course.
a. Routine blood chemistries and organ profiles
b. Urinalysis
c. Food analysis
d. N u t r i e n t level determination

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

20

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

ANNEX 3-PORTFOLIO

INTRODUCTION:
The purpose of developing a portfolio is to make a trainee reflect on the process of training
and professional development as a trainee in Human Nutrition. It should be composed of a
series of documents that record this process.
OBJECTIVES
The trainees should have
1. used a wide and appropriate range of learning methods effectively to develop their
knowledge, skills and attitudes in Human Nutrition.
2. developed personal and professional strategies appropriate to the constraints and
opportunities during their training period.
4. evaluated their own work with self, peer and supervisor based monitoring and
evaluation techniques.
5. designed methods and techniques to improve the practice of management of nutritional
problems in the community and clinical settings.
6. provided support to the colleagues, peers and allied staff in providing training in
nutrition
7. shown a commitment to work with and learn from colleagues, practiced equal
opportunities and continued reflection on professional practice.

1/ An introduction to self; in the 1st person

Who you are?

Where do / did you work? (Present and past)

Current work place - special interests you may have regarding in nutrition.

2/ Statement about your mission and vision as a Medical officer Human Nutrition

Duties and responsibilities as a trainee in Nutrition.

Your vision of a professional career in Nutrition.

3/ Records of activities and practices that you have undertaken as an MSc trainee in
Human Nutrition to achieve the objectives mentioned above (minimum 5)
A. Record of training appointment- Log entries of all appointments
This should include details of training appointment with the signature of the trainee.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

21

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b

B. Reflective writing
This should include at least 5 reports that document what you hoped to achieve at
the beginning of the in-service training appointment, and how much of this you had
achieved by the end. The report should include in addition a self-evaluation carried
out mid-way during the appointment that reviews your achievements to date,
identifies problems that prevent you from reaching your goals, and what you plan to
do to correct these deficiencies.
C. Direct observation of practical skills (DOPS)
A minimum of 3 practical skills should be assessed during the taught course or
hospital based training period. A description of the procedure together with the
formative assessment in the structured format should be included in the portfolio.
E.g. Steps to be followed in weight, height, Mid arm circumference, BMI etc.
D. Other reports that can be included in the portfolio-CPD activities :

Descriptions of ward rounds performed during the hospital based training

appointment, as well as ward classes and other discussions.

Descriptions of field attachments performed during the community based training

appointment, as well as community interactions and other discussions.

Reports on presentations you have made at journal clubs, lectures, etc, and
feedback received from peers or supervisors on such presentations.

Case records of patients that trainees have discussed with the trainer during their
hospital training and field training.

Slides presentation

Certificate in participating in Journal clubs

Certificate of attendance in clinical meeting

E. Training of others

Description of teaching commitments undertaken by you during your training

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

22

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b
ANNEX 4-DIRECT OBSERVATION OF PRACTICAL SKILLS (DOPS)

Trainees
name:
Assessors
name
Brief outline of procedure, indicating
focus for assessment (Refer to topics in
curriculum). Tick category of procedure or
describe in space available.

Complexity of procedures

Low

Average

Please grade the following areas using the scale provided.

This should relate to the standard expected for the end of
the appropriate stage of training:

High
Below
expect
ations

Border-line

Meets
expec
tation

Above
expectation

Un
able to
comment

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

PLEASE COMMENT TO SUPPORT YOUR

SCORING

SUGGESTED DEVELOPMENTAL
WORK:
(Particularly areas scoring 1-3)

Outcome

Signature of
Assessor

Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory
(Please circle as appropriate)

Date of assessment:

Signature of
Trainee:

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

23

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

ANNEX 5-PROGRESS REPORT FORM
To be sent at end of the 2 month in service community and hospital based in-service
training, to Coordinator MScin Human Nutriton

Name of trainee:
Name of trainer:
Training centre:
Period of report:
Please use the following key to rate your trainees performance during the period in question,
with regard to each of the areas listed below
Outstanding

Above average

Adequate

Below expected

PRACTICAL SKILLS

Rating

Specific comments

1.
1.

C. Record keeping

PROJECTS OR OTHER ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT DURING THE

PERIOD OF TRAINING:

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

24

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Rating

Specific comments

Rating

Specific comments

1. Communication & working with

others in the settings
2. Communication & working with
persons of other disciplines
3. Supervising & helping juniors and
willingness to serve when required
2. Following instructions of senior
colleagues
3. Power of expression (oral and written)
7. Standard of punctuality, ethics,
professional attitudes and reliability

ACADEMIC SKILLS
1. Theoretical background and
knowledge
2. Reads widely in medical literature
3. Participates actively in academic
discussions
4. Thinks independently and rationally
GENERAL COMMENTS
Particular strengths

Particular weaknesses

Signature of trainer

.
Name

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

Date

25

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

ANNEX 6 -MARKING GRID FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF PORTFOLIO

YEAR:
INDEX NO OF CANDIDATE:
Maximum Mark
mark
awarded

Area

Introducing oneself

5
5
5

Mission and vision as a medical nutritionist

Timely submission
Complete with minimum criteria

1. Used a wide and appropriate range of learning methods

effectively to develop their knowledge, skills and attitudes in nutrition.

2. Reflected on their own personal and professional practice and

development, assessed their future development needs and made plans
for continuing professional development

3. Developed personal and professional strategies appropriate to

the constraints and opportunities of their working environment .

4. Evaluated their own work with self, peer and supervisor based
monitoring and evaluation techniques.

5. Shown a commitment to work with and learn from colleagues,

practiced equal opportunities and continued reflection on professional
practice.

Record of training appointment

DOPS 1
DOPS 2
DOPS 3
commitment to reflective practice
Presentation, originality , organization, innovativeness
Total
Marks out of 50

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

10
10
10
10
10
5
100
50

26

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of Colombo

ANNEX 7 - PORTFOLIO BASED VIVA EXAMINATION
YEAR:
INDEX NO OF CANDIDATE:
Please encircle the appropriate cell for each item below.
1. Authenticity of work
0

Evidence of plagiarism

Replication of the work of someone else, but properly referenced

Adaptation from the work of someone else; properly referenced

Original work with limited applicability beyond the given portfolio entry

Original work with wide ranging applicability

2. Communication skills
0

Unable to communicate an idea

Communicates unclearly

Communicates clearly, but some of the content is not relevant

Communicates clearly and relevantly but not in proper sequence

Communicates relevant material clearly and in the proper sequence

3. Reasoning skills
0

Cannot indicate the reason for including a given portfolio item

Can give only limited reasons

Can give sufficient reasons, but cannot justify the reasons if challenged

Can reason and justify

Can reason, justify and analyze the strengths and weakness of own reasoning

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

27

Postgraduate Institute of Medicine-University of

C l b
4. Ability to apply learning beyond portfolio item
0

Cannot indicate the situations that the learning from a portfolio item can be used

Can identify situations with limited relevance that the learning from a given item can
be useful

Can identify relevant situations that the learning from a given item can be useful

Can identify relevant situations and the components of learning (from a given
portfolio item) that can be useful for such situations

Can identify relevant situations and the pros and cons of applying the learning to those
situations

5. Global rating
0

Total (out of 20)

Marks out of 50:

Guideline for examiners

a) Two examiners must mark the above scales independently.
b) Each candidate will be examined for 20 minutes.
c) Examiners should mark the above marking sheet at the end of 20 minutes.
d) All questions must be based on items from the candidates portfolio.
e) Each question must be focused on the aspects addressed by 1 to 4 scales above.
f) Only a maximum of two questions may be asked on the same portfolio item.
g) The two examiners should ask questions alternatively.
h) Each scale should be marked independently.

Prospectus- MSc in Human Nutrition

28