Introduction to Speech Pathology Practice (UoA)

Undergraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
SPTH 1002
Course ID icon
Course ID
204932
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

In this course, students will be introduced to the foundational concepts relating to key areas of speech pathology practice: communication and swallowing. Students will develop an awareness of the individual and social factors that shape human communication, eating and drinking across different social contexts. Students will be introduced the Communication Bill of Rights, and the integral role communication, eating and drinking play in the formation of individual identity and social connection. Further, they will develop understanding about speech pathology scope of practice in a range of contexts, including health, disability and education. Finally, students will be introduced to the role of research literature in advocacy, support and the delivery of innovative, client-centered, evidence-based speech pathology services, and how speech pathology contributes to patient/client care in a broader health service.

Course learning outcomes

  • Describe the foundational concepts of communication and mealtime practices.
  • Explain the influence of individual and social determinants on communication and mealtime practices.
  • Explain the role of communication in the preservation of human rights.
  • Discuss how communication and mealtime practices inform personal and cultural identity, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and how impairment or difference can be perceived by others.
  • Define and discuss the scope of speech pathology practice within the allied health profession, and its role in enabling communication, eating and drinking.
  • Use the Speech Pathology Australia Professional Standards (2020) to engage in reflection about speech pathology practice and the development of professional identity.

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A