Linguistics for Speech Language Pathology (SLP100)

This course is a practical introduction to the aspects of linguistics that speech and language pathologists (SLPs) need to understand in order to be able to diagnose impaired language by using the available assessments and tools for analyzing patients’ language abilities. It introduces the concepts and terminology of traditional linguistic description alongside those employed within speech and language therapy, enabling students to explore different linguistic components in detail, focusing on the core linguistic areas of phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, discourse and pragmatics. During the course, students will gain a better understanding of how the insights from linguistic theory and analysis can be applied to the description and analysis of communication impairments.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe basic components of grammatical description and language use, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and discourse.
2. Illustrate how any of the basic components of grammar can become impaired.
3. Compare various approaches to the analysis of typical and atypical speech and language.
4. Develop assessments of typical and atypical speech and language.

Introduction to Speech and Language Disorders (SLP106)

This course is a general introduction to developmental and acquired speech and language disorders. It provides the students with a basic understanding of the linguistic perspectives on epidemiology, etiology, symptomatology and assessment of speech and language disorders, as well as their implications for language science. Foundation clinical practice skills will be introduced (e.g., simulations) to allow students to develop their clinical skills.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the effects of different language disorders on core language functions.
2. Describe basic aspects of assessment and intervention for speech, language, and communication disorders.
3. Identify core language functions.
4. Examine the implications of disordered language data on theoretical accounts of language.
5. Interpret the implications of linguistic research on speech and language therapy practice.

Speech Acoustics and Articulation (SLP220)

This lecture course focuses on General and Speech acoustics, the Different Physical properties of sound waves, the way they propagate, and how they are perceived. The conceptual build-up for theories on which speech sound physics are structured will be discussed.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Utilize the mathematical formulas of sound wave parameters
2. Identify the concepts of Fourier analysis and sound spectra.
3. Apply the models of resonation to the vocal tract tube resonation model and know the difference between broad band and narrow band resonation filters.
4. Explain the concept of sound harmonics and the impact of the vocal tract shape on the resulting sound spectra.
5. Assess primary clinical applications of articulation and acoustics in voice disorders, resonation disorders and voice identification

Neurology for Speech, Language & Hearing (SLP236)

This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of neuroanatomy and physiology for communicative functions including speech, language, and hearing. The course will cover the neurological aspects of typical speech, language and swallowing functions across the lifespan and will introduce the role of the peripheral and central nervous system in communication and swallowing functions.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP246 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Illustrate the cortical divisions of the central nervous system and areas of the brain linked with dimensions of speech, language and swallowing functions.
2. Explain how the cerebellum and brainstem influence communication.
3. Identify the cranial nerves involved in hearing, speech and swallowing.
4. Examine the neuro-sensory organization of speech and hearing and the neuro-motor control of speech.
5. Evaluate examples of general speech, language, hearing and swallowing symptoms associated with particular central nervous system lesions and neuropathology.

Speech Physiology (SLP246)

This course is a study of the anatomy and physiology of the articulatory, auditory and nervous systems as involved in speech production and perception. The course familiarises the students with the aspects of human anatomy relevant to speech and language (the respiratory system, laryngeal-phonatory system, oropharyngeal–articulatory system, auditory system, nervous system) and their physiology, focusing on how the function of individual anatomy corresponds to the production and perception of speech communication, as well as presenting common disorders.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• Pre/Co SLP106 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the anatomical structures involved in respiration, phonation, resonance, articulation, and hearing
2. Explain the physiological function of the structures of respiration, phonation, resonance, articulation, and hearing.
3. Outline the etiology of the most common disorders affecting the structures of respiration, phonation, resonance, articulation, and hearing.
4. Describe the process of speech production.

Introduction to Audiology/Hearing Sciences (SLP256)

This course introduces students to the profession of audiology and provides an overview of auditory function and the basic principles of audiologic assessment. The course includes descriptions of the physical and psychological properties of sound and the basic anatomy and physiology of the auditory system. It additionally explains basic diagnostic and screening procedures of the auditory mechanism which aid students to recognize common auditory (and related) disorders and facilitate their management. Students also conduct a field project to interview hearing-impaired adults and audiology specialists.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Define various topics in audiology and hearing loss.
2. Differentiate the different assessment procedures to identify the hearing loss.
3. Conduct the different hearing tests to identify hearing loss.
4. Diagnose the type of hearing loss based on the hearing test results.
5. Design different technology and treatment options for hearing impaired people.

Child Language Development (SLP276)

This course will provide an understanding of typical child language development, including the acquisition of phonetics and phonology (the sound system of the language), morphology (the structure of words), and syntax (the structure of sentences). It will consider basic theories of child language development expanding the scope to the acquisition of more than one languages (bilingualism). Finally, it will discuss the conditions and symptoms associated with atypical language development and child language disorders. Foundation clinical practice skills will be introduced (e.g., simulations) to allow students to develop their clinical skills in child language development.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• LNG100 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Contrast competing scientific theories of child language acquisition.
2. Analyse errors in children's language production.
3. Recognise the main challenges faced by the child during the process of language acquisition and the strategies used to overcome them.
4. Outline the typical developmental path in language acquisition.
5. Formulate research questions and conduct research relevant to the study of language acquisition.

Voice Disorders (SLP286)

This course offers students a basic introduction to the assessment and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders in children and adults. Students will develop the skills to effectively enumerate the characteristics that define and differentiate articulation and phonological disorders and the individuals who demonstrate them and to assess, plan, and implement appropriate intervention strategies for persons presenting with articulation, voice, and/or phonological disorders with functional or organic etiology.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• Pre/Co LNG220 with a minimum grade D
• Pre/Co SLP106 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Employ phonetic transcription using the International Phonetic Alphabet in transcribing disordered language.
2. Analyse typical types and symptoms of voice disorders.
3. Recognise the motor and cognitive correlates of voice disorders.
4. Diagnose patients with voice disorders.
5. Develop treatment plans for patients with voice disorders.

Early Childhood Language Disorders (SLP306)

This course introduces students to developmental speech and language disorders in children, examining the phonological, syntactic, semantic and pragmatic aspects of these disorders including Specific Language Impairment, cerebral palsy, split palate, Down syndrome and autism. It provides students with knowledge and skills required to assess and remediate language impairments in children from the pre-linguistic level through preschool years and with an understanding of their interaction with other developmental milestones. Students are instructed in understanding language impairment, assessment, and intervention, collecting and analyzing language samples, and the skills required to assess emerging diagnostic and treatment practices in this area.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Explain major types of speech and language impairments in children.
2. Demonstrate the linguistic characteristics of each of these types.
3. Explain how findings in early language disorders relate to linguistic theory.
4. Determine the causes of these impairments and the conditions associated with them.
5. Justify diagnostic and therapeutic methods and challenges in early childhood.

Articulation and Phonological Disorders (SLP316)

This course offers students a basic introduction to the assessment and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders in children and adults. Students will develop the skills to effectively enumerate the characteristics that define and differentiate articulation and phonological disorders and the individuals who demonstrate them and to assess, plan, and implement appropriate intervention strategies for persons presenting with articulation, voice, and/or phonological disorders with functional or organic etiology.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• LNG220 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Employ phonetic transcription using the International Phonetic Alphabet in transcribing disordered language
2. Analyse typical phonological and articulatory errors in disordered language production.
3. Recognise the motor and cognitive correlates of phonological, articulatory and voice disorders.
4. Diagnose patients with phonological, articulatory and voice disorders.
5. Develop treatment plans for patients with phonological, articulatory and voice disorders.

Fluency Disorders (SLP326)

This course presents the theory, diagnosis and treatment of fluency and motor speech disorders throughout the lifespan. It reviews the symptomatology of these disorders, surveys theories of stuttering, and examines normal versus abnormal fluency development and the anatomy and physiology of speech production as it relates to motor speech disorders and their treatment.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify normal and abnormal anatomy and physiology of the motor speech mechanism in children and adults.
2. Compare etiologies and basic characteristics of fluency motor speech disorders.
3. Apply assessment techniques for a variety of fluency and motor speech disorders in both children and adults.
4. Develop skills necessary to independently interpret and analyze assessment data to plan appropriate intervention.

Deglutition and Dysphagia (SLP336)

This course will provide students with the basics of the anatomy and physiology of the oral, pharyngeal, esophageal functions related to swallowing and eating. Specific knowledge of the etiologies for dysphagia will be covered. It also provides students with the framework for the physical and laboratory evaluation and treatment of dysphagia.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP246

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the relevant neuroanatomical structures in both children and adults and describe their roles in the process of deglutition.
2. Contrast the causes, signs, and symptoms of oral and pharyngeal dysphagia.
3. Employ the appropriate applications of various instrumented and non-instrumented dysphagia evaluation techniques.
4. Determine the appropriate management for various causes of dysphagia.

Adult Neurologic Communication Disorders (SLP356)

This course introduces students to speech and language disorders in aging adults, and highlighting the social impact and issues that they present. It provides students with knowledge and skills required to distinguish normal aging processes from disordered language, and assess and remediate language impairments of different etiologies in adults. Students are instructed in understanding language impairment, assessment, and intervention, collecting and analyzing language samples, and the skills required to address challenges specific to the aging population.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• Pre/Co SLP106 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Contrast normal aging processes and disordered language.
2. Demonstrate the linguistic characteristics of different types of disorders. (Bloom's Taxonomy-Application)
3. Determine the social impact and challenges of language disorders in the aging population
4. Justify diagnostic and therapeutic methods in motor and neurogenic language disorders in adults.
5. Formulate and administer treatment plans in motor and neurogenic language disorders in adults.

Motor Speech Disorders (SLP366)

This is a core course for the newly proposed BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders and covers an important area within the spectrum of language disorders. It therefore constitutes an essential part of the professional preparation for graduates of the program to become certified professionals in the fields of speech pathology and communication disorders.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify normal and abnormal anatomy and physiology of the motor speech mechanism in children and adults. (Bloom Taxonomy – Remembering)
2. Compare etiologies and basic characteristics of motor speech disorders.
3. Apply assessment techniques for a variety of motor speech disorders in both children and adults.
4. Develop skills necessary to independently interpret and analyze assessment data to plan appropriate intervention.

Evaluation, Diagnosis & Report Writing (SLP406)

This course will provide students with components of a comprehensive, functional assessment of an individual’s speech, language, and related communication abilities. Students will learn the benefits and limitations of various assessment tools in terms of their appropriateness for the setting, individual, and the cultural context. Students will acquire decision-making processes associated with developing appropriate management programs for people with communication disorders.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP316 with a minimum grade D
• SLP336 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Compare assessment tools for communication disorders.
2. Apply basic diagnostic procedures and essentials.
3. Develop procedures for information reporting and for diagnostic and evaluation report writing.
4. Construct basic therapy procedures and treatment plans.

Medical Aspects of Speech Language Pathology (SLP416)

This course constitutes a study of the medical and biophysical bases of communication disorders and the relevant medical management of such issues as part of the total treatment program within the medical setting. Students will explore the topics most commonly managed in medical settings and the clinical practices of speech language pathology that are specific to and used in medical settings and will develop expertise in clinical instrumentation.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• SLP306 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognise the Speech-Language Pathology topics commonly managed in medical settings.
2. Identify the clinical practices of speech language pathology that are specific to medical settings.
3. Interpret a medical chart to identify pertinent information for the diagnosis and management of patients referred to speech language pathology service.
4. Create written documentation of a patient's diagnosis, progress and discharge plan.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (SLP426)

This course provides students with a detailed overview of the most clinically relevant topics related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication strategies and supports. The course content covers demographic/background information, an in-depth understanding of assessment and treatment, and an overview of evidence-based paradigms associated with augmentative and alternative communication strategies across the lifespan. Students will develop their core knowledge and skills through understanding current research, selecting and applying appropriate assessment procedures, creating treatment plans, practicing creating example AAC devices, in-class participation and activities, and performance on objective assignments. These processes will serve to ensure adequate preparation of students for assessment and treatment in clinical practices relating to AAC.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• Pre/Co SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• Pre/Co SLP246 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Outline the principles and methods in AAC
2. Interpret current findings and issues in AAC research
3. Prepare a sample AAC device.
4. Determine the communicative needs of different disordered populations
5. Justify AAC application depending on patient diagnosis.

Special Topics in Speech Language Pathology (SLP446)

This course aims to provide an overview of contemporary specialized research and professional issues and considerations related to SLP practice. These include topics not covered in the core courses of the program and may fall under the expertise of different permanent and visiting faculty in the Department of SLP or in affiliated/related departments such as Special Education. Possible topics may include specialized themes in Cochlear Implant Rehabilitation, Aural Rehabilitation, Deafness and Sign Language, Autism, SLP and Special Education; or professional issues related to counseling, ethical conduct, caseload/workload issues, certification and licensure, health literacy, supervision of support personnel, reimbursement, and legislation related to the field.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP306 with a minimum grade DSLP316 with a minimum grade DSLP336 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Outline topics in the Speech Language Pathology field of study that are not usually covered in detail in core SLP courses.
2. Examine theoretical and professional issues and considerations related to SLP practice.
3. Classify current cutting edge research approaches to areas of research in SLP.
4. Develop feasible research projects or assessment tools for atypical language or speech.

Psychology of Language for SLP (SLP450)

This course will familiarize students with the interdisciplinary nature of language, psychology and speech-language pathology. Students will learn how cognitive and developmental psychology are linked to speech and language instruction and inform the theoretical basis of many language and communication interventions. Students will come to understand how language as a system is controlled by the brain and how it differs and relates to general cognition. Evidence from biology and socio-cultural effects will be explored. Existing experimental research will be reviewed so that students will be able to construct and design their own language experiments, including analyzing the obtained data and reporting the results.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• SLP220 with a minimum grade D
• PSYC201 with a minimum grade D
• STAT180 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify aspects of the interface between language, psychology and speech-language pathology.
2. Demonstrate the characteristics of language acquisition, language production, language perception and language processing.
3. Analyze the underpinnings of language.
4. Create and design language experiments.

Practicum 2: Clinical Methods & Therapy (SLP456)

This course provides supervised clinical experience in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, and/or swallowing disorders. Students must attend a minimum of 20 hours per week of supervised assessment and intervention experience (i.e., a minimum of 5 hours a day for 4 days in the week) for a minimum of 13 weeks in the semester to ensure a minimum of 260 hours of practical training for the course

Credit Hours : 6

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• LNG455 with a minimum grade D
• SLP306 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate progress from beginning levels of clinical competence toward intermediate levels of competence across all units of standards for Speech Pathologists in reasoning, communication, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
2. Evaluate (directly or indirectly) clinical management of developmental disorders in the areas of language, speech, swallowing, voice, fluency and multi-modal communication in children.
3. Formulate their observations and clinical findings verbally and in writing in a professional and ethical manner.
4. Build skills in professional and ethical behaviour appropriate to the policies and procedures of the clinical placement setting.

Practicum 3: Advanced Clinical Method & Therapy (SLP466)

This course provides supervised clinical experience in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, and/or swallowing disorders. Alternatively, students may focus on curriculum and methods of determining eligibility and providing clinical services to children and adolescents with communication impairments in school settings. Students must attend a minimum of 20 hours per week of supervised assessment and intervention experience (i.e., a minimum of 5 hours a day for 4 days in the week) for a minimum of 13 weeks in the semester to ensure a minimum of 260 hours of practical training for the course.

Credit Hours : 9

Prerequisites

• SLP106 with a minimum grade D
• SLP306 with a minimum grade D
• SLP456 with a minimum grade D
• LNG455 with a minimum grade D

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate progress in advanced levels of clinical competence across all units of standards for Speech Pathologists in reasoning, communication, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
2. Evaluate (directly or indirectly) high-level clinical management of all types of language disorders in the areas of language, speech, swallowing, voice, fluency and multi-modal communication across the life-span.
3. Formulate observations and clinical findings verbally and in writing in a professional and ethical manner.
4. Build skills in professional and ethical behaviour appropriate to the policies and procedures of the clinical placement setting.