University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology

Communication Studies and Language - Language

Purpose and Rationale

Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology Qualification

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). Graduates will be able to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and provide professional services to individuals of all ages with communication and swallowing difficulties. This qualification prepares graduates to work independently in various contexts, including situations where supervision may be limited, collaboration is required, and effective communication with a diverse population is essential.

Rationale

The Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology replaces the existing Bachelor of Arts (Speech and Hearing Therapy) and allows for registration specifically as a Speech Therapist. The restructuring aims to reduce the workload and stress on learners by offering separate qualifications for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The new curriculum provides learners with more time to develop expertise in their chosen field and improve their academic readiness for postgraduate studies. Recognizing the distinctiveness of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology as professions, the revised qualifications ensure that graduates are well-prepared to deliver high-quality services within the South African healthcare system.

By offering specialized and focused training in either Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology, learners can deepen their knowledge, enhance their skills, and meet the evolving demands of these professions. The curricula are designed to uphold the standards of both disciplines while acknowledging their unique requirements and areas of expertise. This approach aims to improve the overall quality of training and better equip graduates to excel in their chosen career path.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  1. Develop appropriate database search strategies and selection criteria in Speech-Language Pathology literature.
  2. Collect, select, organise, interpret and critically evaluate different kinds of data in Speech-Language Pathology.
  3. Use written and spoken language with skill and flexibility.
  4. Synthesise information to articulate clearly sustained arguments in Speech-Language Pathology.
  5. Apply appropriate information technologies in Speech-Language Pathology.
  6. Interpret and criticise subject matter of the discipline, policy or programme in Speech-Language Pathology.
  7. Extrapolate and integrate information and theory in Speech-Language Pathology to solve problems and plan actions within specific contexts.
  8. Conduct small scale research projects using the appropriate disciplinary conventions in Speech-Language Pathology.
  9. Use research data to inform practice in Speech-Language Pathology.
  10. Seek appropriate collaboration with research specialists in order to research questions derived from clinical practice in Speech-Language Pathology.
  11. Make connections between university knowledge and skills, and professional practice in Speech-Language Pathology.
  12. Work constructively with diversity.
  13. Demonstrate independence, initiative, creativity and purposefulness in professional research and practice in Speech-Language Pathology.
  14. Integrate feedback into own and group development.
  15. Evaluate, plan and execute professional services in speech-language pathology eco-systematically.
  16. Use interpreters and other personnel where necessary.
  17. Demonstrate disciplinary and/or professional competence in Speech-Language Pathology.
  18. Establish the client's past and present speech-language status and identify potential etiological factors.
  19. Use integrated information in conjunction with the Speech-Language Pathology knowledge base to negotiate and derive appropriate therapy plans.
  20. Seek regular meetings and feedback with role players to establish networks of professional support.
  21. Ensure continuing and regular review of speech-language therapy techniques and results.
  22. Communicate outcomes of any speech-language assessment and intervention procedures to the client.
  23. Maintain objective, dated, quantitative and qualitative progress notes and justify and document variation from negotiated programs.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Learners are assessed through assignments, tests, written and oral examinations, clinical reports, and supervisors' evaluations of clinical performance.
  • Assessment is comprehensive and covers various aspects of Speech-Language Pathology practice to ensure competency and readiness for professional work.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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University of the Witwatersrand
Description
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits University or simply Wits, is a renowned public research university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Established in 1896, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Wits University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, commerce, health sciences, and law. The university is known for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to social justice. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations and cultural activities. Wits University is recognized internationally for its high-quality education and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.