Professional Communication and Behaviour Change Skill

Core skills for a dietitian include the ability to communicate effectively and to promote positive behaviour changes in clients. This unit explores the theories of effective communication and behaviour change as they apply to healthcare practice, with specific focus on motivational interviewing techniques and promotion of behaviour change in clients. Students will develop professional approaches to verbal and non-verbal communication with clients and other health professionals. They will explore and develop, through scenarios, role plays and case studies, strategies for effective interviewing, active listening and goal setting with clients.
Students will also develop skills in recording and communicating written information appropriately and professionally to clients and other health professionals.

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Critically review and apply theories of behaviour change to dietetic practice;
2. Justify and exemplify tailored oral and written communication strategies for diverse public and professional audiences;
3. Identify and implement strategies that assist individuals to establish and achieve self-directed tailored goals; and
4. Participate in an academic community through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.