Module Directory

This foundation module introduces students to core topic areas that underpin and are fundamental to the effective practice of Speech and Language Therapy.

The module covers the topics of biological science (anatomy and physiology), psychology, sociology, education philosophy & practice and professionalism. Together these topics encompass a broad range of 'core' knowledge which is necessary for the practice of speech and language therapy. The knowledge developed within these areas provide a 'frame of reference' within which the student can better understand the processes of child development, language acquisition, the management of paediatric communication disorders and Speech and Language Therapy as a profession. These core areas of scientific and professional study will form a foundation from which the student can build a deeper understanding of the nature and practice of speech and language therapy.

The aims of this module are:

• To introduce key concepts in biological sciences, psychology, sociology, education, and professionalism that are relevant to the nature and practice of Speech and Language Therapy.


• To explore how biological sciences, psychology, sociology, education, and professional issues underpin current Speech and Language Therapy practice.


• To support the application of knowledge of biological sciences, psychology, sociology, education and professionalism to SLT theory and practice.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate systematic understanding of anatomy, physiology, and neurology relevant to Speech and Language Therapy.


2. Identify and critically explain key concepts in psychology, sociology and education philosophy & practice relevant to Speech and Language Therapy.


3. Identify and discuss key professional concepts and issues relevant to Speech and Language Therapy, recognising uncertainty, ambiguity, and limits of knowledge.


4. Critically reflect on how biological sciences, psychology, sociology, education philosophy & practice, and professionalism underpin and inform the nature and practice of Speech and Language Therapy.


5. Critically reflect on your personal application of underlying core knowledge to SLT modules and practice placements.

It is expected that students will extend and apply underlying knowledge of the core topic areas to concurrent and later SLT modules and practice placements. The emphasis is on the application of underlying knowledge to the understanding of aspects of communication difficulties and the work of the speech and language therapist within current legislative, national and professional guidelines.

It is anticipated that students will undertake the speech and language therapy course from diverse backgrounds and with a range of underlying skills and experience. This foundations module undertaken in the first term of study will ensure that all students, whatever their background, have achieved a standard level of knowledge in core areas before proceeding with further study.

The module also supports students to develop key graduate employability skills including independent learning, critical thinking and team working through a range of teaching and learning strategies (e.g. student led presentations, discussion groups, workshops).

The module covers the topics of biological science (anatomy and physiology), psychology, sociology, education philosophy & practice, and professionalism. The knowledge developed within these areas provides a 'frame of reference' within which the student can better understand the processes of child development, language acquisition, the management of paediatric communication disorders and Speech and Language Therapy as a profession. It is expected that students will extend and apply underlying knowledge of the core topic areas to concurrent and later SLT modules (HS831, HS832, HS833 & HS834) and practice placements (e.g. HS831 schools placement). The emphasis is on the application of underlying knowledge to the understanding of aspects of communication difficulties and the work of the speech and language therapist within current legislative, national and professional guidelines.

The module also supports students to develop key graduate employability skills including independent learning, critical thinking and team working through a range of teaching and learning strategies (e.g. student led presentations, discussion groups, workshops).

• Biological science for Speech and Language Therapy.


• Psychological science for Speech and Language Therapy.


• Sociological science for Speech and Language Therapy.


• Educational philosophy for Speech and Language Therapy.


• Professionalism in Speech and Language Therapy.


• NHS Constitution (Values and Beliefs).


• SLT contexts of practice.

This module combines the use of interactive lectures, workshops, student led presentations, discussion groups and independent learning opportunities to develop student's knowledge and application of the core topic areas which underpin the nature and practice of Speech and Language Therapy and promote key graduate employability skills.

Lectures

Fixed resource sessions: The fixed resource sessions consist of interactive lectures and class based workshops. Fixed resource sessions are delivered and/or facilitated by module tutors and external speakers. Fixed resource sessions are used to deliver aspects of the professionalism, education philosophy & practice and biological sciences components of the foundations module.
Student led presentation & discussion sessions: These are the primary teaching and learning methods for the delivery of the psychology component of this module. These methods develop student’s knowledge and application of core psychology topics to SLT practice and promote independent learning, critical thinking and oral presentation skills. Each presentation group is required to plan and deliver one 30 minute presentation on an allocated topic and facilitate the corresponding group discussion to explore how the topic underpins SLT practice. A tutor will be present during the psychology sessions to support as appropriate (see separate psychology guide for further details)
Small group discussions: This is the primary teaching and learning strategy for the delivery of the sociology component of this module. This teaching and learning method develops student’s knowledge of core sociology topics related to SLT and promotes independent learning, communication & team working skills. Each discussion group is required to meet on a weekly basis to discuss an allocated topic. Students should undertake self-guided study around the allocated sociology topic prior to each session and make notes as appropriate to support the discussion.

Independent

Self-guided learning: This involves the student undertaking independent study using a range of learning resources including: recommended reading, course study notes, library resources, resources in the SLT laboratory, IT resources and appropriate tutorial support.
Placement: This foundations module underpins later learning in readiness for placement activity. It will be required when considering clients development and difficulties throughout placement experiences.
Online: Students are directed to online resources as appropriate, SLT laboratory and professional & government websites. Lecture materials and additional publications are included on the online Moodle page.
Tutorials: Students are encouraged to access individual or small group tutorial support for areas of difficulty. Academic staff are available for tutorial support by appointment. Please email the appropriate tutor to arrange an appointment.
Skills: Application of core knowledge to SLT practice and key graduate employability skills are embedded throughout the delivery of the HS830 foundations module. These skills are further extended in later modules and on practice placements.