James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2000

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OT1002:03

Communication Skills for Therapy

Townsville

13 lectures, 26 tutorials. First semester.

Available to level 1 Occupational Therapy students. Other students embarking on a health or therapy career may also enrol with the appropriate prerequisite.

Staff: Ms H Jensen.

Communication skills for therapy will explore therapist/client communication, professional communication with other health professionals and the public at large. Verbal, nonverbal, written and information technology skills will be developed in relation to codes of practice, ethics and medico-legal responsibilities in a multicultural society. Issues of confidentiality and disclosure will be discussed with emphasis on family issues and the mentally ill. Practical skills in interviewing, conflict management, negotiation and assertive communication will be acquired.

Learning Objectives:

  1. understand the process of effective interpersonal communication in relation to the helping process;
  2. evaluate own communication effectiveness and competence;
  3. develop effective culturally appropriate interviewing skills;
  4. describe the major requirements of the Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice for Occupational Therapists in Australia;
  5. demonstrate efficiency in written reports.

Assessment by experiential diary (pass/fail); literature review (60%); report and presentation (40%).


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