In response to demand from speech pathologists wishing to update their qualifications to meet requirements to practice in Australia set by Speech Pathology Australia, The Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology at Flinders University offers an online topic in swallowing and dysphagia (SPTH 3409). Online students should have their own computer and a fast internet connection. This self-paced course is the equivalent of a 40 hour semester program (13 weeks), to be completed at the students' own convenience, within approximately 3 months. Generally there are three commencement dates each year (semesters 1 [End February] and 2 [end July], and a summer topic [Early December]), however this may vary so please check with the enrolment service or the Speech Pathology & Audiology Department. Regular feedback from the instructor is offered in response to online postings for each module of study and there are other students taking the course online who can serve as learning supports. When considering this novel way to learn, remember that, like all professional study, “online learning requires plenty of self-discipline, organization, responsibility, support from family and friends, and perseverance” (Bacani & Rohlfs, 2000).
Note that the topic DOES NOT provide practical experience - our award students receive this in other components of the program. Any work-shadowing arrangements must be organised independently, but there are some online preliminary activities that help to prepare students for such practical work. This can be done in the student’s home country, probably more successfully once the academic study has been completed.
Modules of study
The topic is organised in four modules of study which can be self paced, but might each take 2-3 weeks to complete. Each module contains three learning activities designed to support a single PBL case (Problem Based Learning). Each case evolves over a series of disclosures, with students determining the learning issues and researching them independently. Many resources for this research are available online, including key research articles. There are several recommended videos, but if these are not obtainable from a local university or library, alternate texts that will achieve a similar purpose can be suggested. There are no set texts. Ask the lecturer about the CD-ROM, The Dynamic Swallow.
Assessment
Assessment is via a portfolio of the student’s work, submitted as four drafts, one on completion of each module, together with a single statement of learning relating to the selection of items and a short viva (10-15 minutes) which can be taken over the telephone or via a chat room.
The assessment portfolio is a powerful learning tool and should
be both challenging and fun to create. It is a summary of the student’s
major learning in the area of dysphagia, reflecting preparation
for weekly activities and case-based learning. At the end of the
topic students submit material that provides their best evidence
to convince the lecturer in charge that they have achieved significant
learning relevant to the topic objectives. This portfolio consists
of four separate pieces of work of approximately 750 words each,
together with a justification for the selection of these particular
items (that is, students must explain why the items were selected
and how they show that topic objectives have been met. Students
should also explain what was challenging about the learning that
took place). The portfolio is personally prepared and provides recorded
details of students’ own competence and effectiveness. Students
must take responsibility to include some examples of their learning
and to exclude others. Whereas suggestions of appropriate items
to include in the portfolio are made, there is scope to give the
imagination and creativity free reign. Students are encouraged to
discuss their ideas with the lecturer in charge. Drafts are required
at intervals (after completion of each case) so that the workload
is distributed across the semester, allowing learning to take place.
Drafts are marked in a timely fashion so that they may be amended
prior to submission of the final portfolio of work. This allows
students to develop an understanding of their progression, clearly
showing where growth of understanding and mastery of content has
occurred.
Specific Objectives for the Topic:
On completion of the topic students will know how to:
recognise safety implications of swallowing difficulties identify individuals at risk for dysphagia apply knowledge of the normal swallow (infant and mature) to assist in the diagnosis of abnormal swallowing patterns and as a basis for therapy detect the effects of specific conditions (e.g. normal aging; neurogenic conditions; structural alterations following surgery) on swallowing function take a detailed history and conduct a relevant clinical examination make links between the outward signs of swallowing dysfunction seen during clinical assessment and knowledge of anatomy and physiology conduct instrumental physiologic examinations with related professionals (e.g. videofluoroscopy; fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing) make links between related aspects of course content, such as aetiology, assessment and treatment techniques determine management decisions e.g. regarding methods of oral intake, risk precautions, candidacy for intervention, treatment strategies, be aware of ethical issues provide education, counselling, and training to clilents, significant others and diverse professionals manage and/or participate in an interdisciplinary dysphagia team
How to enrol
International students must apply to the International Office for enrolment in a single topic, SPTH 3409, as Study Abroad students. Such students will pay the pro rata Study Abroad tuition fee which is AUD$2000. Students must provide details of their previous study, including all academic transcripts, and English language qualifications. Down load the form. For email enquiries contact: study.abroad@flinders.edu.au
Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia should apply to the Enrolment Office at Flinders University for enrolment as a non-award student in the topic SPTH 3409. The cost for this topic is $2000. For email enquiries contact: enrolment.services@flinders.edu.au.
Upon receipt at the Enrolment Office, the application will be directed to our Course Coordinator for approval. This will be returned to the enrolment officer who will contact you regarding your acceptance and will provide details of payment.
Here’s what our first graduates had to say:
I have just completed the Swallowing & Dysphagia course as an on-line student. I enjoyed completing the course although it was definitely hard work! It is a well designed course where much of the learning is self-directed. This allows you to concentrate on areas that you feel you need to improve in. The best thing for me is that I could fit in the coursework around my part-time job. I was able to go through the work at my own pace and I was always able to access excellent support from the tutor when I needed it. The advantage for on-line students is that many of the journal articles needed are available in full text on the internet through the University Library. I only needed to visit my local University Library on a few occasions. I would definitely recommend this course to others. Suzanne
This was a unique way of learning, where I could study and learn the subject at my own pace. Most of the material and resources were available online and supervision by the tutor assisted me in achieving the necessary foundation that would be required for practice with dysphagic patients. It was wonderful to share the messages and postings by other students through the discussion forum, rather than just the ‘teacher- student communication’. Through this approach many of my questions were answered and these ‘collective efforts’ enhanced my understanding since it was good to see other students’ perspectives as well. The best part was the exceptional and creative approach (at least for me) of assessment where I was free to choose any mode to demonstrate my learning about a particular case. I thoroughly enjoyed creating my assessment portfolio- I chose a concept map, power point presentation, brochure and handouts. Studying dysphagia online has been a very enriching experience and the best option for me. Being a mother of a young baby in a new place, I could complete the course without being under time pressure and in a relaxed atmosphere with great guidance, support and resources- all at my computer desk!!!! – Rashmi
…Ingrid was very helpful as a tutor. She replied promptly to all emails and activity postings, which is great if you are working in addition to studying and very often could only find a few hours here and there during the week to study. Ingrid’s guidance and advice was provided in a supportive and constructive manner, which encouraged me to persevere when my time to study was so limited.
…In addition to learning about dysphagia, the course helped me to figure out all sorts of technicalities relating to the internet and computer programs … These skills are valuable tools in any work environment.
…having completed a number of courses via correspondence in the past, I would highly recommend this dysphagia course. I feel empowered by the knowledge that I have learned, and look forward to applying it in clinical practice in the not too distant future. – Lindsay
The course entailed a lot of hard work, but the amount of knowledge that was gained, on both practical and theoretical levels, made the effort most worthwhile. I found the structure of the course extremely beneficial. Working on weekly activities simultaneously with relevant problem based learning cases enabled me to think about and address both theoretical and practical issues. As I worked through the course, I found that the learning that had occurred at any one stage could be related back to previous issues and used to understand and complete upcoming tasks. In addition, although the course focused largely on adult swallowing and dysphagia, I was able to apply everything I had learnt to my own paediatric/young adult caseload.
The course provided me with a solid basis and understanding of both normal swallowing and dysphagia. Causes, symptoms, assessment procedures (clinical and instrumental) and treatment strategies were addressed. It also provided me with a structure within which to view not only my clients with dysphagia, but all the children I work with. The importance of evidence based practice and keeping up to date with the literature was reinforced, and I have gained direction in continuing my learning in relevant areas.
A large part of my enjoyment of the course was the manner in which it was run by Ingrid Scholten. Support was always offered through constructive comments and encouragement. I found Ingrid completely approachable - even about matters not directly related to the course, and felt that she took an interest in me as an individual and in my specific learning needs. I would highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to further their knowledge and skills in the areas of swallowing and dysphagia. Charlene