Abstract
This paper describes revision of the nutrition scientist professional competency standards for use in Australia. Nutrition experts from industry, community, government and academia (n=128) were consulted to define areas required for nutrition science practice. The process used a multiple methods iterative approach consisting of three stages: 1. scoping study of existing competencies; 2. exploratory survey; and, 3. a modified Delphi process (2 rounds). After applying a ≥70% consensus rule, a final list of competency standards were identified; five core and three specialist competencies. The five core standards are defined as: Nutrition Science; Food and the Food System; Nutrition Governance and Sociocultural and Behavioural Factors; Nutrition Research and Critical Analysis; and Communication and Professional Conduct. These standards are all supported by fundamental knowledge, skills, attitudes and values. The three specialist competency standards are: Food Science; Public Health Nutrition; and Animal Nutrition. These new nutrition science competency standards acknowledge diversity within the science of nutrition. They describe the professional expectations of entry-level nutritionists and nutrition scientists for effective practice in the Australian workforce. As such they provide a framework to benchmark Australian nutrition science degrees and majors with the aim of building professional identity and strengthening graduate outcomes.
Original language | English |
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Pages | 57-58 |
Number of pages | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2019 |
Event | The 42nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Nutrition Society of Australia - QT Hotel, Canberra, Australia Duration: 27 Nov 2018 → 30 Nov 2018 Conference number: 42 |
Conference
Conference | The 42nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Nutrition Society of Australia |
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Country/Territory | Australia |
City | Canberra |
Period | 27/11/18 → 30/11/18 |