Module manager: Karis Vercoe
Email: K.Vercoe@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Standard entry criteria for BSc(Hons) Diagnostic Radiography programme
ARCS1111 - Diagnostic Imaging Technique 1
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces students to the core knowledge and skills required for diagnostic radiography technique. It combines theory and practice to develop competence in projection radiography, emphasising positioning, imaging technique and safe, effective practice. Students will learn to use radiographic terminology accurately and apply a systematic approach to image review. The module provides essential foundations for progression in the programme and preparation for practice placements.
The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the application of imaging the musculoskeletal system. The module will introduce the student to basic imaging projections of the appendicular and axial skeletal, thorax and abdomen and introduce students to begin to develop skills in and appreciate the importance of a systematic approach when performing radiograph critique. The aim of this module is to act as a foundation of knowledge to further develop in years 2 and 3.
At the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate correct use of fundamental radiographic terminology.
2. Describe and apply basic theoretical principles of projection radiography to the musculoskeletal system, thorax, and abdomen.
3. Explain the principles that underpin safe, effective and high-quality diagnostic radiographic technique.
4. Use a systematic approach to review radiographs for diagnostic acceptability.
· Use radiographic terminology accurately in theory and practice.
· Apply projection radiography principles to musculoskeletal, thorax, and abdominal imaging.
· Position patients and operate radiographic equipment safely to produce diagnostically acceptable images.
· Systematically review radiographs.
· Integrate theoretical knowledge with practical radiographic skills and radiation protection principles.
- An introduction to the role of the radiographer and safety in imaging modalities
- Surface anatomy and radiographic terminology
- Diagnostic imaging technique of the thorax
- Diagnostic imaging technique of the lower limb
- Diagnostic imaging technique of the upper limb
- Diagnostic imaging technique of the abdomen and pelvis
- Diagnostic imaging technique of the whole spine - Image critique and the 10 point checklist
- Image critique and the 10 point checklist
- Exam preparation
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 19 | 1 | 19 |
| Class tests, exams and assessment | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Lecture | 5 | 2 | 10 |
| Practical | 19 | 1 | 19 |
| Independent online learning hours | 75 | ||
| Private study hours | 75 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 50 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Students are expected to engage in independent study each week to consolidate and extend learning from taught sessions. This will include completion of mandatory reading, review of lecture and practical materials, consolidation of knowledge and completion of weekly formative workbook questions aligned with the teaching schedule. Independent study should also include image critique practice and reflection on positioning principles demonstrated in practical sessions. Students are encouraged to undertake wider reading to support the development of foundational knowledge and professional understanding appropriate to the module learning outcomes.
Formative activities will be embedded throughout the module and will include workbook quizzes, structured questions within lectures and during practical sessions. These activities support the development of foundational terminology, positioning knowledge, image evaluation skills and clinical reasoning. Feedback will be provided through quiz responses, model answers, group verbal feedback and guided peer discussion during practical sessions.
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team