This unit aims to provide an understanding of the anatomy, physiology and physics of speech. Students will gain a detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the head and neck as well as functional activities involving swallowing and speech. In addition student will learn the role of physics in sound production. Control of breathing and respiration in normal and pathological condition is also covered in this unit. Practical classes will take a case-based approach to learning. This unit includes laboratory classes in which human cadavers are studied; attendance at such classes is required.

Students will explore the nature of language: introduction to phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics and orthographic systems, , with a clinical focus. Particular emphasis on grammar, phonetics and articulation assessment and intervention. Analysis of language for clinical purposes (especially grammar transcription and phonetic transcription skills). This unit of study prepares students with the necessary background knowledge to undertake phonology, language and clinical units later in the course.

This unit of study focuses on the neuroscience of hearing. The aim is to provide an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the hearing mechanism beginning with the fundamental concepts of nervous system structure and function. Anatomy of the brain and spinal cord is studied using models. The physiological component of the unit will cover topics such as the generation of a nerve impulse, basic mechanisms of reflexes and the function of the somatosensory system. Students will also be introduced to the anatomy and physiology of the brain stem and cranial nerves as well as the autonomic nervous system. The second half of the course will focus on hearing mechanisms and diseases associated with the ear, nose and throat. Case studies aimed at identifying simple neural problems associated with sensory and motor systems are specifically designed for students undertaking professional preparation degrees. Practical class attendance for this unit is compulsory.

Human Communication Development includes knowledge and skills related to typical communication development in English across the lifespan and in cultures relevant to the Australian context. Students will learn about the sequence of normal communication development from pre-linguistic communication development in infants through to aging processes affecting adult language; the significance of context and function in the development of language; the universality of communication development, and the effect of gender and culture in communication development. Students will learn relevant theories and knowledge regarding the development of communication including phonetics, phonology, semantics, syntax, pragmatics and non-verbal communication and be introduced to literacy. This unit prepares students to undertake observation and analysis of communication skills and uses cases to apply knowledge across the lifespan. Students will also begin accumulating knowledge about professional communication skills needed by health professionals to work with clients, carers and colleagues with practical application including small group assessment tasks.

The unit will introduce the different types of hearing loss, basic audiological tests, and clinical procedures for evaluating hearing in children and adults. Students will learn to interpret audiological results and make conclusions about the severity, type, and configuration of the hearing impairment. This will promote an understanding of how the anatomy and physiology of the ear and cortex function, and how to assess the structures of the auditory system to diagnose different hearing related conditions.