NUTD2105 Social & Ecological Perspectives on Food Choice

2013

4.5

13 x 50-minute lectures per semester
12 x 2-hour tutorials per semester

1 Admission into BND-Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics
1a Admission into BHS-Bachelor of Health Sciences
1b Admission into BMS-Bachelor of Medical Science
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b))

1 of NUTD3004, NUTD3201 has been successfully completed

Essay; Seminar; Critical Reflection; Tutorial participation

This topic introduces students to the social and ecological dimensions of food and nutrition. While people don’t choose foods for health reasons alone, we are nevertheless interested in food choices because they contribute to health behaviours, and health outcomes. This topic examines health and food choices from the theoretical perspective of underlying social determinants. We will therefore consider the many factors which influence food choices, such as age, gender, ethnicity, socio-economic status, Aboriginality, cultural values, and, location of residence. We will also look beyond individual and community factors, to consider broader state, national and global aspects which have a bearing on food access, affordability and availability. These will include geographical and climatic conditions, and fiscal and social policies which influence how food is grown, processed and distributed. Understanding these social and ecological influences is important for health professionals who want to promote healthier food choices among individuals and population groups.

This topic aims to:

• Enable students to develop an understanding of the complex interrelationship of social, political and economic factors influencing individual food choices.

• Enable students to develop an understanding of the broad political, geographic and climactic forces shaping the food supply.

• Expose students to the social determinants of health and nutrition problems.

• Encourage reflection on ethical aspects of food equity and sustainability.

• Foster an appreciation of the wide range of discipline-specific knowledge and cultural perspectives, involved in the study of food choice.

• Facilitate independent as well as collaborative work.

On completion of this topic, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of social epidemiology, social determinants of food choice, and ecological factors impacting the food supply.

• Apply this knowledge to consideration of nutrition problems, and the role of health professionals in promoting healthy food choices.

• Demonstrate appreciation of ethical issues, and broader discipline and cultural perspectives.

• Demonstrate independent learning as well as collaboration with peers.

• Engage in critical reflection on personal learning.