SPH1000 · Anatomy and physiology for speech, language and swallowing

Overview

In this unit, you will learn the anatomical and physiological foundations essential for understanding speech, language, and swallowing functions required for speech pathology practice. You will study the structure and function of the respiratory, phonatory, articulatory, and nervous systems, with a focus on their relevance to communication and swallowing. This directly supports your ability to apply knowledge of key anatomical structures and physiological processes involved in speech pathology-related disorders and impairments. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between structure and function, and how impairments in these systems can affect communication and swallowing across the lifespan, aligning with your ability to examine the impact of disorders on activity and participation. Throughout the unit, you will be introduced to relevant clinical assessments and case-based learning that will help you discuss assessment approaches used in identifying speech pathology-related impairments. You will also begin to develop effective communication skills to support clients with anatomical and/or physiological concerns, laying the foundation for professional practice.

Offerings

Assessment

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

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. Apply knowledge of key anatomical structures involved in speech pathology-related disorders and impairments.
2. Apply knowledge of the physiological processes that support speech, language, and swallowing functions.
3. Discuss relevant clinical assessments required in the identification of speech pathology-related disorders and impairments.
4. Examine the impact of speech pathology-related disorders and impairments on individuals’ activity and participation across the lifespan.
5. Demonstrate effective communication and self-reflexivity skills to support clients with anatomical and/or physiological concerns relevant to speech pathology practice.

Workload

This unit will have 6 hours of teacher-directed study per week (including 1 hour of lectures, 3 hours of online learning activities, and 2 hours of on-campus workshops). Additionally, there are 6 hours of self-directed study per week, making the total workload 12 hours. Total workload per semester: 144 hours.

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