Professional Communication and Behaviour Change Skill

Unit code: HHN4001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
VU Sunshine Clinical School
Prerequisites
240 credits from Bachelor of Nutritional Science/ Master of Dietetics (HCND) OR Appropriate Bachelor degree for graduate entry students.
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

Core skills for a dietitian include the ability to communicate effectively and to promote positive behaviour changes in clients. This unit explores the theories of effective communication and behaviour change as they apply to healthcare practice, with specific focus on motivational interviewing techniques and promotion of behaviour change in clients. Students will develop professional approaches to verbal and non-verbal communication with clients and other health professionals. They will explore and develop, through scenarios, role plays and case studies, strategies for effective interviewing, active listening and goal setting with clients.
Students will also develop skills in recording and communicating written information appropriately and professionally to clients and other health professionals.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Critically review and apply theories of behaviour change to dietetic practice;
  2. Justify and exemplify tailored oral and written communication strategies for diverse public and professional audiences;
  3. Identify and implement strategies that assist individuals to establish and achieve self-directed tailored goals; and
  4. Participate in an academic community through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 10%
Test (30mins)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Individual case study presentation (5mins)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Case study report (1500 words)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 40%
Individual Client Interview and supporting written resource (15mins + 500 words equivalent) (hurdle)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

Students must complete all assessment tasks and pass the Individual Client Interview assessment task which is a hurdle requirement as this is the only task that directly assesses tailored communication with a lay audience. This is an essential skill for a dietitian.

Required reading

Handbook of clinical nutrition and dietetics
Stewart, R. (Ed.). (2022)| Australian Dietitian.

RECOMMENDED TEXT: Bauer, K., & Liou, D. (2020). Nutrition counselling and education skill development (4th ed.). Cengage. Lawrence, M., & Worsley, T. (Ed.). (2007). Public health nutrition: From principles to practice. Allen & Unwin.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Nutritional Science/Master of Dietetics
HCND | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years
Master of Dietetics
HMDT | Masters (coursework) degree | Duration: 2 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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