Communication and Swallowing Across the Lifespan

Undergraduate | 2026

Course page banner
area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
SPTH 2006
Course ID icon
Course ID
204933
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
2
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
alt
Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

In this course, students will learn foundational concepts about the underlying neurological, cognitive, perceptual, sensory and motor components that support communication and swallowing. Students will develop an understanding of communication and swallowing skill development and the factors that influence this process across the lifespan.

Course learning outcomes

  • Explain how communication and swallowing evolves across the lifespan, and describe the factors that influence communication and swallowing from infancy to old age.
  • Apply the World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework to communication and swallowing across the lifespan.
  • Analyse, discuss and interpret information regarding communication and swallowing behaviours indicative of typical development.
  • Reflect about group functioning and the relationship between this, and health professional teamwork skills.
  • Describe and reflect on the different factors that impact attitudes towards cultural and linguistic diversities, and the role of speech pathology in delivering culturally responsive healthcare.

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A