Miscellaneous

A communication disorder is an impairment in the ability to receive, send, process, and comprehend concepts or verbal, nonverbal and graphic symbol systems.  A communication disorder may be evident in the processes of hearing, language, and/or speech.  A communication disorder may range in severity from mild to profound.

Specifically, speech and language impairment (SLI) refers to any one or combination of the following conditions that may lead to communication difficulties – a) speech sound disorders, b) voice disorders, c) fluency disorders, d) language disorders.  Students with SLI may encounter difficulties in communicating effectively with others, which may affect one’s self-esteem and development of social relationships.  They may have difficulties in understanding and/or giving oral presentations, struggle in following rapid verbal exchanges which may limit their participation in classes.  They may also lack confidence in speaking in front of public or a large group of people.  They may thus have trouble adapting to the course work and university life.  This is partially attributable to the lack of awareness of SLI among university students and teachers.

This course is an SDG-GE course, which aims to promote good health and well-being in the university population, reduce inequality among students with different abilities, and thus facilitate equal access to quality education.  The course also helps students to understand the social and economic considerations relevant to speech and language impairment (SLI).