Foundations of Speech Pathology

Unit code: HHB2003 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
96 credit points of HCSP
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
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Overview

This unit introduces students to the foundational concepts, scope, and professional standards of Speech Pathology in Australia. Students will explore the development of communication and swallowing across the lifespan, theoretical models underpinning practice, and the role of speech pathologists in diverse settings. The unit also fosters early professional identity, ethical awareness, and reflective practice. As part of this unit, students will complete one day of guided observation and reflection in a community facility such as aged care.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Describe the scope and role of speech pathology in Australian health, education, and community contexts, including the assessment, diagnosis and intervention for communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan;
  2. Explain key theoretical models of communication and swallowing across the lifespan;
  3. Exhibit understanding of Speech Pathology Australia’s Professional Standards and Code of Ethics;
  4. Reflect on the responsibilities and identity of a speech pathologist; and
  5. Collaborate effectively in a group to analyse clinical scenarios, apply theoretical knowledge, and communicate findings in a structured and professional format.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Explores student perspectives on the scope and role of speech pathology in health, education, and community contexts (600 words)
Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Theoretical models of communication and swallowing relevant to a case study (1500 words)
Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Case-based group presentation (10 mins) with peer feedback and live individual Q&A (10 mins) (20 mins total)

Essay: In the essay students will also critique their own use of AI and how it might be relevant to their future practice as a speech pathologist.

Presentation: Individually assessed component of the case-based presentation will include questions on application of knowledge and reflections on community observational visit.

Required reading

Readings will be available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Speech and Language Sciences/Master of Speech Pathology
HCSP | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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