Evidence-based Case Integration in the Aotearoa Context

In this course, students undertake advanced study with a focus on the management of more complex and multifaceted cases. Discussion topics include the management of clients for whom there is more than one key factor influencing their management (e.g. presence of more than one communication disorder, psychosocial factors, bilingualism and culturally and linguistically diverse background) and for clients in specialist areas of speech-language therapy (e.g., neurodevelopmental disorders, cognitive communication disorders). Within this course, students will conduct independent research to explore knowledge which enables them, on the basis of a range of novel and complex case studies, to independently compare and contrast appropriate assessment procedures, to differentially diagnose the presence, extent, and nature of the communication disorder. Additionally, students will conduct research to establish appropriate goals for intervention, and to plan an appropriate intervention programme using evidence-based practice. Their work will reflect a balanced awareness of issues in clinical practice and will develop research skills to critically appraise the quality of the evidence underpinning their clinical decisions.