Applied Human Nutrition Learning Outcomes
At the end of the AHN program, all AHN students will have completed learning outcomes 1-5. Learning outcome 6 is an additional learning outcome to be completed only by students in the Area of Emphasis in Dietetics.
1. Core Knowledge in Applied Human Nutrition
Integrate and apply knowledge in core food and nutrition domains. Core domains include nutrition and metabolism; clinical nutrition; nutrition assessment; nutrition services management and food service systems; nutrition communication and education; food skills; community/public health nutrition; nutrition policy; and nutrition across the lifespan.
Students will demonstrate this outcome by using critical thinking, research, communication and professional skills to complete complex learning and problem-solving activities, examples of which include:
- Creating evidence-based nutrition care and assessment plans for individuals which integrate counselling strategies and behaviour change theories
- Planning, delivering, and evaluating food and nutrition initiatives (such as a community nutrition education program; quantity food production, menu planning and service)
2. Supporting Knowledge in Applied Human Nutrition
Utilize broad foundational knowledge of associated disciplines and topics to support core knowledge and learning, and to complete complex learning and problem-solving activities as assessed in applied human nutrition. Associated disciplines and topics include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, chemistry, food science, culinary arts, microbiology, pharmacology, sociology, psychology, physical activity, health behaviour theory, determinants of health, management, and research methods.
3. Critical Thinking and Research Skills
Use analytic, problem-solving, research and statistical skills to identify knowledge gaps and to find, critically evaluate and apply nutrition and health information and research.
Students will demonstrate this outcome by skillfully analyzing and appraising nutrition and health-related information obtained from research, experience, reflection, and/or written or oral communications. With these skills, students will design nutrition care plans and research studies.
4. Communication Skills
Synthesize and convey information, arguments, and analyses accurately and appropriately for the target audience, using a variety of oral, written and visual communication modalities.
Students will demonstrate oral communication skills by creating logically structured oral presentations which address the breadth and depth of content required of the topic; creating and utilizing audiovisual materials appropriate for the topics; facilitating understanding of content for the audience; and delivering content in an engaging manner. Examples of oral efforts include seminar presentations, journal article critiques, food demonstrations, nutrition counseling sessions, etc.
Students will demonstrate written communication skills by creating logically structured, grammatically correct documents which address the breadth and depth of content required of the topics, and in which various thoughts and arguments flow and are supported and
appropriate for the target audience. Examples of written efforts include systematic literature reviews, lab reports, case studies, patient education materials, etc.
Students will demonstrate visual communication skills by analyzing or representing data in graphs, figures, or charts; and creating and utilizing audiovisual materials appropriate for the topics. Examples of visual efforts include poster presentations, maps, diagrams, graphs, and tables.
5. Professional Skills
Apply basic knowledge of ethics and standards of professional practice in the broad practice of nutrition.
Students will demonstrate this outcome by respectfully and professionally collaborating with others towards a common goal, while demonstrating cultural competence and proficiency in teamwork, leadership, organization, and time management. Others may include peers, instructors, registered dietitians, patients, clients, family, community partners, healthcare colleagues, industry stakeholders, etc.
6. Area of Emphasis in Dietetics (only applicable to students completing the Area of Emphasis in Dietetics)
Demonstrate all academic Performance Indicators as described by the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice.
Students will demonstrate this outcome by completing all courses listed for the Area of Emphasis in Dietetics according to the Academic Calendar.