Program Overview

Introduction to Speech Pathology Practice

The unit SPHY101 introduces students to the profession and practice of speech pathology in Australia. Speech pathologists work across various practice areas, including speech, language, fluency, voice, swallowing, and multi-modal communication. They must meet professional standards and adhere to the Speech Pathology Australia Code of Ethics and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF).

Unit Rationale, Description, and Aim

This unit aims to provide students with an introduction to speech pathology practice in Australia, covering the range of practice areas and settings within which speech pathologists work. Students will learn about professional conduct, reflective practice, and the frameworks that guide speech pathology practice, including the ICF, client/family-centered practice, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional practice.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this unit, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the scope of speech pathology practice, standards of practice, and contexts of practice.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the frameworks that guide speech pathology practice.
• Discuss the importance of communication and mealtime activities at individual and societal levels.
• Demonstrate professional conduct and reflection in learning and professional practice activities.
• Demonstrate cultural humility and explain behaviors and values required to engage in lifelong learning.

Unit Content

The unit covers various topics, including:

• Professional conduct
• Reflective practice and lifelong learning
• Speech pathology practice, including areas of practice, scope, and settings
• Introduction to community engagement, focusing on principles of community engagement and working with disadvantaged population groups

Assessment Strategy and Rationale

A range of assessment procedures will be used to meet the unit learning outcomes and develop graduate capabilities. These include:

• Ungraded Hurdle Task 1: Mandatory Compliance Documentation
• Ungraded Hurdle Task 2: Online Community Engagement module
• Assessment 1: Quizzes
• Assessment 2: Oral Presentation
• Assessment 3: Learning and reflective journal

Learning and Teaching Strategy and Rationale

This unit fosters student-centered active learning and accommodates diverse student needs. It includes a combination of self-paced, online learning, and real-time classes, including professional practice activities. Early and additional feedback on learning and tailored support are provided to facilitate students' transition to university.

Representative Texts and References

Key references for this unit include:

• Speech Pathology Australia's Code of Ethics
• Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists in Australia
• The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) by the World Health Organisation
• Various academic articles and textbooks on speech pathology practice and evidence-based practice

Locations and Credit Points

This unit is offered in several locations, including Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, and North Sydney, and is worth 10 credit points.