Outline

Overview

Students develop early skills in professional practice and service level intervention through lectures, tutorials, and undertaking observations and activities (in pairs) in a preschool/long day care centre. Through the preschool experience students develop early professional self-awareness, reflective skills, and learn how language is used and targeted through language stimulation activites. They will engage and collaborate with staff, and consider potential ethical issues relating to speech pathology practice with children and families in community collaborations. Providing culturally safe and responsive practice with First Nations and diverse populations is discussed. Students will also develop early report writing, record keeping, and case presentation skills, and gain an understanding of government legislation and compliance to policies and procedures within the childcare setting.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Communication Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	CSCD1032 and CSCD1034
Corequisites ?	CSCD2057 and CSCD2068
Prohibitions ?	CSCD2064
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Annie Chan, annie.chan@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
In-person practical or creative task	Practice education paperwork Complete relevant online forms associated with the placement, WHS and SONIA	0%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 Jul 2026	-	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical or creative task	End placement checklist Introductory practice end placement checklist	25%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 Jul 2026	-	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Reflective practice assignment Students are given guiding questions to complete a reflection on their placement	15%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 Jul 2026	400-500 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Attendance - accreditation or faculty requirement	Attendance at all practice supervision meetings Attend weekly practice supervision meetings.	0%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 Jul 2026	Throughout the length of the placement	Not applicable
Outcomes assessed:
Attendance - accreditation or faculty requirement	Attendance - Orientation and all practice education appointments Compulsory attendance at orientation and appointments	0%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 Jul 2026	Throughout the length of the placement	Not applicable
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Early Feedback Task In class quiz based on previous weeks' lecture content	5%	Week 03 Due date: 12 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 19 Mar 2026	30 mins	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Cultural Competence Module 3 and Reflection Individual task, online module, written reflection.	10%	Week 04 Due date: 22 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 05 Apr 2026	45 min module, 200-250 word reflection	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical or creative task	Mid placement Checklist Complete mid placement practice education checklist	5%	Week 08 Due date: 20 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 04 May 2026	-	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Video Simulation: Case based video assessment role play Paired video simulation and written submission.	40%	Week 12 Due date: 24 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 14 Jun 2026	6-8 minute video, 600 word submission	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Attendance at orientation and all practice education appointments
Attendance at all practice supervision meetings: students will attend weekly practice supervision meetings.
Practice Education paperwork: Students complete relevant online forms associated with Work Health and Safety and practice education, practice experience hours and relevant surveys. Relevant paperwork is available in SONIA (practice education data base) and canvas
Early Feedback Task - In Class Quiz: students will complete a quiz during their lecture regarding the previous weeks' lecture content.
Cultural Competence Module 3 and Reflection: students complete ‘Cultural Competence Module 3: Racism Runs Deep’ online and submit a 200-250 word written reflection.
Mid Practice Education Checklist: students complete an introductory practice education checklist in the middle of their placement related to the Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists
Video Simulation - Case based video assessment role play: students work in pairs to complete a 6 minute video demonstrating assessment information gathering and submit a 600 word written submission about ethical considerations, related to a case.
End Practice Education Checklist: students complete an introductory practice education checklist at the end of their placement related to the Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists, with their mentor or Practice Educator.
Placement Reflection: students complete a 400 - 500 word placement reflection.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas. Students are required to complete all assessment tasks to pass the unit of study. Failure to complete any assessment item will result in students being awarded a Fail grade, regardless of their cumulative marks in the unit of study.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

HD	High distinction	85 - 100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard.
DI	Distinction	75 - 84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard.
CR	Credit	65 - 74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard.
PS	Pass	50 - 64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard.
FA	Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introductory practice & clinic orientation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Scope of practice of a speech pathologist	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 02	Community placement introduction	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 03	Scope of practice of a speech pathologist	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 03	Communicating with external services	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	Communication (Professional and Clinical)	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 04	Communication skills	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Communication (verbal and written)	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 05	Language Activities Plans - introduction	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 06	Evidence based practice, Ethics and Implications	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 06	Language Activities Plans - teaching and reflecting	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	Evidence Based Practice, Ethics and Implications	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 07	Language Activities Plans - goals and activities	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 08	Formulating SMART goals, Evidence Based Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 08	Language Activities Plans - targets, activities and wrapping up	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 09	Family Centered Practice, SMART goals and Evidence Based Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 09	Checklists	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 10	Reflective practice	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 10	Checklists	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Reflective Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 11	Reflecting and Feedback	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	Transferability of Skills and Evidence Based Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 12	Presentation	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 13	Summary of Semester 1 and looking ahead to Semester 2	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 13	Presentation and Placement Paperwork	Tutorial (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Practice placements are scheduled from March - November. This unit of study consists of a 1 hour lecture and 1 hour tutorial per week and a 4 week placement for at least two hours per week (or equivalent to a minimum total of 8 hours attendance) at a pre-school. Students are paired and are expected to attend at least 4 separate visits to the preschool. Students are expected to undertake all components of this unit of study to their completion and in their entirety.

Students are supported with information in orientation/ briefing sessions during the year prior to their attendance at the placement and regular meetings during the placement. This is supplemented by the Introductory Practice: Clinic and Community Canvas site. All briefing sessions, tutorials and supervision team meetings are compulsory.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

The Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists in Australia (Professional Standards)

https://speechpathologyaustralia.cld.bz/Speech-Pathology-Australia-Professional-Standards-2020

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Demonstrates professional conduct across evidence-based practice, compliance, collaboration, communication, record keeping, and advocacy at an early novice level
LO2. Demonstrates early novice level skills in reflective practice and life-long learning, including self-awareness, learning goals, integration of knowledge, and peer learning
LO3. Demonstrates early novice level skills in person/family-centred and culturally safe and responsive speech pathology practice (with improvement between mid and end evaluation), including assessment, diagnostics, reporting, and service planning and delivery.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Speech Pathology Australia Professional Standards (2021) - 1.1. Provide ethical and evidence-based practice 1.2. Comply with legislation, standards, policies and protocols 1.3. Provide safe and quality services 1.4. Collaborate with individuals, their supports, our colleagues and the community 1.5. Maintain high standards of communication, information sharing and record keeping 1.7. Advocate for optimal communication and swallowing 2.1. Demonstrate self-awareness 2.5. Acquire, critique and integrate knowledge from a range of sources 2.6. Engage in learning with colleagues, students and the community 3.1. Develop shared understanding of speech pathology
	Speech Pathology Australia Professional Standards (2021) - 2.1. Demonstrate self-awareness 2.5. Acquire, critique and integrate knowledge from a range of sources 2.6. Engage in learning with colleagues, students and the community 3.1. Develop shared understanding of speech pathology
	Speech Pathology Australia Professional Standards (2021) - 1.1. Provide ethical and evidence-based practice 1.2. Comply with legislation, standards, policies and protocols 1.3. Provide safe and quality services 1.4. Collaborate with individuals, their supports, our colleagues and the community 1.5. Maintain high standards of communication, information sharing and record keeping 1.6. Consider the needs of individuals and communities in clinical decision-making and practice 2.5. Acquire, critique and integrate knowledge from a range of sources 2.6. Engage in learning with colleagues, students and the community 3.1. Develop shared understanding of speech pathology 3.2. Assess communication and swallowing needs 3.3. Interpret, diagnose and report on assessments 3.4. Plan speech pathology intervention or service response 3.5. Implement and evaluate intervention or service response 3.6. Support development of the profession

Speech Pathology Australia Professional Standards (2021) -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1		Professional Conduct
1.1		Provide ethical and evidence-based practice
1.2		Comply with legislation, standards, policies and protocols
1.3		Provide safe and quality services
1.4		Collaborate with individuals, their supports, our colleagues and the community
1.5		Maintain high standards of communication, information sharing and record keeping
1.6		Consider the needs of individuals and communities in clinical decision-making and practice
1.7		Advocate for optimal communication and swallowing
2		Reflective practice and life-long learning
2.1		Demonstrate self-awareness
2.2		Use critical reflection to inform professional development and practice
2.3		Plan personal development goals
2.4		Participate in professional development
2.5		Acquire, critique and integrate knowledge from a range of sources
2.6		Engage in learning with colleagues, students and the community
2.7		Contribute to the speech pathology evidence base
3		Speech pathology practice
3.1		Develop shared understanding of speech pathology
3.2		Assess communication and swallowing needs
3.3		Interpret, diagnose and report on assessments
3.4		Plan speech pathology intervention or service response
3.5		Implement and evaluate intervention or service response
3.6		Support development of the profession

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Student feedback from UoS Survey has been reviewed and considered.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Students must complete a work health and safety checklist with their clinical educator during the first week of placement.

Students must be fully verified through NSW Health and have a valid police check and WWCC.

The Public Health (COVID-19 Vaccination of Health Care Workers) Order 2021 directs that a healthcare worker – including students, volunteers and those undertaking administrative duties - must not do work as a healthcare worker unless they have received:

at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine

This is a requirement for health care workers within NSW Health and private health facilities, or others so directed by the Chief Health Officer, and the vaccine must be one that is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

CSCD2065: Introductory Practice 1: Community

Semester 1, 2026 [Professional practice] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links