Looking to develop a deeper understanding of education, Amelia Edwards was able to complete her postgraduate studies at QUT while continuing to work full-time as speech pathologist in South Australia.
Passionate about learning how to better support her clients and empowering other speech pathologists to enhance their service delivery, Amelia talks about why she chose to complete a Master of Education - Inclusive Education.
What was it like studying externally whilst working full-time?
I found it extremely easy to study online as I live in South Australia. The learning resources that QUT provided were excellent and there was great communication from teaching staff about assessment due dates and other important information. As I was working full-time while studying, I needed to be well-organised and plan out the semester in advance. QUT was great at providing flexible options so that I could easily manage my commitments.
What do you enjoy about your job?
As a speech pathologist, I work with clients who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), which are the tools and strategies that someone uses to solve their everyday communication challenges (e.g. a communication book or communication device). I love seeing my clients communicating better with their family and friends and participating meaningfully at school and in their community while using their AAC system.
As a clinical lead, I am passionate about supporting other speech pathologists and working to enhance their service delivery so that every client at Novita can have access to high quality speech pathology intervention.
Can you share a memorable moment?
Often my favourite moments are related to when my clients say something funny or unexpected using their AAC system. For example, I was having a pretend tea party with one of my clients (at her request), and when I asked her what was in the teapot, she said using her communication device, “wine!” - with the cheekiest grin on her face!
Other interesting projects I have been involved with have included contributing to a successful ILC grant application to develop resources to support the emotional development of children with complex communication needs. I was also involved in a project to develop a series of videos featuring clients using AAC in a range of settings, including inclusive schools and kindergartens. These videos are featured on a national platform through Positive Partnerships.
Why did you choose this course?
I wanted to develop a deeper understanding of education and how to support the teaching and learning of students with disabilities in an inclusive environment. I was able to collaborate with educators in order to achieve the best outcomes for these students (who in the past have sadly often been underestimated and/or excluded from mainstream settings). I initially completed a short online course through QUT called Inclusive Education: Essential Knowledge for Success. As I was passionate about growing my skills in this area, I knew enrolling in the masters degree would develop my knowledge and understanding of inclusive education further.
How did your degree help you in your current role?
Studying at QUT provided me with a sound knowledge base of inclusive education and ensured I was better equipped to support my clients with complex communication needs. I have had many opportunities to present on inclusive education such as being guest speaker at the School Inclusion Network for Educators (SINE) webinar series. I am proud to promote further advocacy in this area on the board of founding directors at Inclusive Educators Australia. I have also developed extensive leadership skills and been able to provide guidance to the speech pathology team at Novita.
What did you find useful about the course?
I found the practical focus on assessment tasks and applying our knowledge in real life situations was very useful. The standard of teaching within this degree was incredibly high, and it was clear that the teaching staff were just as passionate about inclusion as we were.
Learn more about the Master of Education - Inclusive Education.
