vcc.ca
MLAB 1160: Human Relations and Communication
Effective date
January 2027
Department
Medical Lab Assistant
School
Health Sciences
Description
In this course the student will learn theory and practice of effective communication, teamwork, and interprofessional skills for collaboration with other health care professionals and patients/clients. This course introduces Cultural Safety and Humility as integral to communication and human relations in health care. Students will utilize strategies that demonstrate respect for diversity, dignity, values and beliefs of others.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe communication processes as they relate to professional interactions.
- Implement strategies to mitigate barriers to effective communication.
- Develop effective interpersonal skills that demonstrate respect for diversity, dignity, values and beliefs of others.
- Demonstrate professional client/customer service as related to the clinical laboratory.
- Reflect on Cultural Safety and Humility to support a safe and supportive health care environment.
- Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills to patient care within the MLA practice.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 24
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 6
Total Hours: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 6
Total Hours: 30
Instructional Strategies
This course includes lectures, role rehearsals, workshops, assignments, online activities and group work. Simulation, both virtual and/or hi-fidelity is used to practice skills.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
B-
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
35-45 |
6 skills reflections - ~7% each |
|
Other |
15-25 |
Communication Skills Assessment |
|
Midterm Exam |
10-20 |
Exam 1 |
|
Final Exam |
15-25 |
Final Exam |
|
Participation |
5-10 |
Classroom engagement as per rubric |
Course topics
- Communication Processes
- Barriers to communication
- Basic Communication Skills
- Higher level communication skills: - diffusing hostility - giving and receiving feedback - empathy - conflict resolution - mediation
- Working effectively as a team member
- Respect in the workplace
- Practicing Cultural Safety and Humility
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.