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SLT502 - Swallowing and Mealtime Management Across the Lifespan

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Speech Therapy

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Must have passed 4 units in (SLT311, SLT501, SLT503, SLT504)

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit provides students with the knowledge and skills to conduct clinical assessments and intervention for feeding and swallowing impairments in adults and children. Students will gain an understanding of the anatomy, physiology and neurology of the normal stages of swallowing, including the typical development of swallowing and changes with ageing. They will also explore aetiological factors and quality of life issues associated with swallowing disorders.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Review normal swallowing across the lifespan and report on the aetiologies, presentations and risks associated with difficulties with swallowing and mealtime participation..
2.	Evaluate the use of clinical and instrumental assessments for swallowing, demonstrating an understanding of the strengths, weaknesses and information obtained.
3.	Synthesise case information to formulate appropriate evidence-based, person-centred management plans for clients with conditions affecting their swallowing.
4.	Critically reflect on the varied roles of the speech pathologist and other team members in optimising swallowing and mealtime participation.
5.	Evaluate the ethical, legal and quality of life issues surrounding swallowing assessment and management.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Quiz (20 minutes)	10%	1
2.	Discussion Board Post (3 x 300 words) (Hurdle)	P/F	1,2,3,4,5'
3.	Clinical swallow assessment (20 minutes)	20%	2
4.	Report (1500 words) and clinical competency demonstration (10 minutes video submission).	30%	1,2,3,4,5
5.	Final Exam (2 hours) (Hurdle)	40%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 2	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2026	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2025 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
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