NUT1024 · Nutrition, health and behaviour

Overview

This unit is a part of Theme 2 - Nutrition and Health which introduces the behavioural aspects to nutrition and health. While food is fundamental to life, nutrition is very much affected by perceptions. This unit highlights the study of nutrition from anthropological (biological and cultural) approach. You will be introduced to aspects of evolutionary behaviours related to food and nutrition and the social context within which these behaviours operate. The unit will also examine the psychological influences in health and illnesses especially theoretical models that describe how beliefs and behaviours influence health. Additionally, you will learn about dietary and physical activity related behaviour change approaches.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe theoretical models that affect behaviours and health.
2. Explain historical, evolutionary, and biological basis of human nutrition.
3. Investigate the foods, food ingredients and historical influences on eating patterns found in Malaysia and other parts of the world.
4. Identify social and cultural influences on health behaviour, beliefs, and choices of a diverse population such as Malaysia.
5. Analyse diets, food perceptions and environmental biases of different segment of population.
6. Develop the ability to prepare and make scientific presentations and writing in the context of food and culture.

Workload

6 hours of teacher directed study per week, including 2 hours of lectures, 2 hours of workshops (fortnightly), 2 hours of tutorials (fortnightly) and 4 hours of applied sessions on 5 occasions over the 12-week. 6 hours per week of self-directed study. Total per week = 12 hours

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.