Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology
Health Sciences and Social Services - Preventive Health
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose
The purpose of the Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology is to equip learners, through a planned combination of learning outcomes, with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes consistent with best practice in the profession of Speech-Language Therapy. This qualification will enable learners to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Speech-Language Therapist and provide professional services within the scope of practice to individuals of all ages who are at risk for, or present with, communication and swallowing difficulties.
The regulations for this qualification are designed to address the need in South Africa for qualified speech-language therapists, particularly in areas where there may be limited access to such services. The program aims to train competent professionals who can provide supervision, mentorship, and collaborative services at all healthcare levels while effectively addressing the needs of a multicultural and multilingual population in an ethical manner.
Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be equipped to apply knowledge and skills related to human behavior, human communication, and interventions for those with communication delays or disorders. They will also be able to promote, assess, restore, and maintain optimal communicative functioning for individuals and communities, while upholding principles of human rights and social justice.
Rationale
The Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology program prepares learners to assess and treat speech, language, feeding, swallowing, and related disorders in both children and adults through collaboration with clinicians and educators. The curriculum covers various areas including anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, communication disorders, assessment techniques, and rehabilitative therapies.
With a focus on managing communication and swallowing disorders in diverse settings ranging from rural communities to urban centers, the program aims to produce speech-language therapists capable of offering quality services across different sectors.
The Department of Speech-Language Pathology aims to address the lack of linguistic diversity within the profession by providing high-quality education and training to a more diverse group of learners. By training professionals who can cater to linguistic and cultural needs, the program seeks to contribute positively to the healthcare system in South Africa and beyond.
The qualification acknowledges the evolving scope of practice for speech-language therapists and emphasizes the need for specialization in areas such as primary healthcare and redress. By producing therapists with strong theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise, the program aims to empower learners to address healthcare challenges, technological advancements, and the needs of marginalized populations effectively.
Ultimately, the qualification aims to develop competent healthcare professionals who can promote health, prevent, assess, diagnose, and manage speech and language disorders in diverse settings while upholding high ethical standards, communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning and research.
By focusing on patient-centered care and applying relevant frameworks, learners will contribute to the improvement of healthcare services and outcomes in South Africa and beyond.
Outcomes
- Apply relevant theories and models of care available in the field of Speech and Language Pathology and provide competent clinical services to communities and population groups.
- Demonstrate an understanding of problem-solving skills required to address speech, communication, and swallowing disorders relating to prevention and identification.
- Communicate effectively using both oral and written communication including information technology.
- Educate clients, communities and the public about skills and practices that enhance the development of speech, language and communication in general.
- Plan and execute professional development activities and strategies.
- Formulate appropriate written research proposals and engage in the process of continuous enhancement of professional and research activities.
- Act professionally, empathetically, and ethically in all professional interactions.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Evaluate different theories of communication, typical human development, pathologies, and models of intervention using pre-specified criteria.
- Apply relevant theories to specific population groups and contexts and compile detailed reports.
- Critically appraise and interpret information regarding speech and language practice.
- Formulate detailed reports demonstrating understanding of all areas of practice.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Analyse and define problems in clinical practice and identify criteria for solutions.
- Generate possible approaches for a problem.
- Model and analyse possible solutions.
- Evaluate solutions and select the best one.
- Present solutions appropriately.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Critically evaluate and integrate material from various sources.
- Apply academic information to practical situations.
- Write clear professional reports and correspondence.
- Communicate clearly on professional matters, both orally and in written form.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Disseminate professional knowledge at conferences, meetings, workshops, and journals.
- Engage in continuing professional development.
- Educate the public about the practice of audiologists.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Plan and execute a professional development strategy.
- Select and apply appropriate professional development activities.
- Maintain a record of professional development activities.
- Display independent learning ability.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Select appropriate data-gathering methods.
- Make informed decisions on research design and methodology.
- Critically analyze research data.
- Formulate logical discussions and clinical recommendations based on results.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Comply with relevant legislation and professional ethics.
- Understand and respect clients' rights and community values.
- Show respect and sensitivity to various cultural, ethical, religious, and individual values.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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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.