module specification

NU4057 - Applied Health Psychology (for Nutritionists) (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Applied Health Psychology (for Nutritionists)
Module level Certificate (04)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 150
 
25 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
83 hours Guided independent study
42 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 40%   Reflection (700 words)
Coursework 60%   Case study report (1500 words)
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Monday Afternoon

Module summary

Through successful completion of the module, learners will develop a broad understanding of psychology in relation to health and nutrition behaviour. Learners will also further develop skills in professionalism such as presenting skills and team working.

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Specifically, it aims to provide learners with knowledge and understanding of the psychological theories relevant to the practice of nutrition and dietetics. Also, the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency for Dietitians and Association for Nutrition (AFN) Code of Ethics and Statement of Professional Conduct for nutritionists. 

Relevant aspects of nutrition & dietetic practice, theory and research will also be studied. This module also aims to provide learners with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.

Prior learning requirements

Course entry requirements apply

Syllabus

The learning outcomes will be met via the following components:
1. Professionalism (LO2, LO3):
1.1. Learners will have opportunity to learn with and from learners from human nutrition.
1.2. Complementary and Applied Medicine (CAM): The use and evidence underpinning CAM
1.3. Presentation skill development.
1.4. Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding required to meet the expectations of professional behaviours as stated by the relevant Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRB).


2. Psychology (LO1):
2.1. Theories of human behaviour
2.2. The psychology of health behaviour and health education
2.3. An introduction to health promotion, behaviour change theory and methods for improving health centred on major public health concerns
2.4. Psychological theories related to eating disorders
2.5. Psychological dimensions of long-term illness
2.6. Psychology of normal and disordered eating
2.7. Attitudes and cognitive dissonance

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The module will be delivered through lectures (28 hours) and tutorials which will include directed study, problem-based learning and workshops (14 hours)
Learners will be guided in their independent learning through directed reading (10 hours), use of the VLE and appropriate web-based resources.
Learners will also be required to develop skills in reflection and professionalism.
Learners will develop communication skills through active participation in group tasks.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module learners will be able to:
1. Explain the different theories of human behaviour and the psychological background of aspects of health behaviour relating to nutrition and dietetics.
2. Individual professional development via working and presenting with others.
3. Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding required to meet the expectations of professional behaviours as stated by the relevant Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRB).

Bibliography