XNB251 Nutrition Science
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | XNB251 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | (LSB308 or LQB381) and LQB388 and XNB148 and XNB151 and XNB255 and LQB481. LQB481 can be studied in the same period. |
| Equivalent(s): | PUB405 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $1,192 |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,704 |
| International unit fee | $5,784 |
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | XNB251 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | (LSB308 or LQB381) and LQB388 and XNB148 and XNB151 and XNB255 and LQB481. LQB481 can be studied in the same period. |
| Coordinator: | Katherine Hanna | k.hanna@qut.edu.au |
Overview
Nutrition Science investigates the biochemistry and physiology of the macro and micro nutrients essential to human health. This unit examines the bioavailability, health impacts, food sources (including native Australian foods), intake requirements and status assessment methods for these nutrients. You will estimate intake of nutrients in human subjects, developing dietary data analysis skills using industry relevant digital technologies used in nutrition and dietetics. You will develop a critical and advanced understanding of the complex features of individual and inter-connected nutrients. You will explore and develop research-informed strategies to enhance health and prevent disease in individuals, groups and populations within diverse ethnicities and cultures considering evidence-based barriers and enablers to change. This unit underpins further advanced studies and provides a critical step in your journey as a lifelong learner within the nutrition and dietetics fields.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply advanced knowledge of the macronutrients in a variety of contexts and settings.
- Collect, analyse and interpret dietary intake data of individuals and critically evaluate food composition information using different methods and technologies
- Critically analyse and translate evidence on the nutrients into strategies to enhance health and prevent disease in individuals, groups, and populations.
- Evaluate the complex features of individual and inter-connected micronutrients and apply advanced knowledge to define, explore and advise on the impact of these on individuals, groups or populations in given scenarios.
- Demonstrate academic and professional core skills including industry relevant digital practices, scholarly communication skills, critique, and diverse perspectives and inclusion
Content
- Structure; digestion, absorption, transport, metabolism, storage and excretion; functions; deficiency and toxicity; role in prevention of disease; reference values;
- food sources (including Native Australian foods) and assessment of status of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, lipids and alcohol) and micronutrient vitamins (vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K) and minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium, iron zinc and others).
- Dietary intake of nutrients including use of industry relevant online nutrition analysis software and food composition data;
- Food-based interventions to address excess or inadequacy of specific nutrients that considers ethnic and cultural diversity and the potential use of Australian Indigenous foods.
Learning Approaches
The unit adopts a blended learning approach which includes a combination of online learning modules and face to face tutorials. Online learning takes a nutrient-focused approach while tutorials are designed to consolidate and extend knowledge and apply learning to a range of issues relevant to nutrition practice, develop critical thinking skills and encourage active discussion.
Problem-based learning strategies will be utilised to enhance the transition from theory to practice. The application of an evidence-based approach to nutrition science will be further extended by identifying and reading journal articles, which will be summarised, discussed and applied. Industry-relevant digital practice and technologies will be developed through use of online nutrition analysis software and databases and other sources of evidence, including a critical evaluation of provenance and the level of evidence provided.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Formal and informal feedback will be provided throughout the semester. Formative quizzes will be provided on Canvas for each nutrient. Tutorials will provide informal feedback on the use of Foodworks.online software to ensure you are confident in its use before beginning the assignment. Problem-based activities in tutorials will provide you with opportunities to ask questions and to further prepare for the assessment and final examination. You will receive written summative feedback on the case study as well as grades using the criterion-based evaluation table provided through Canvas. Marks for the tests and written examination will also be available via Canvas.
Assessment
Overview
Assessment information included on Canvas provides details of tasks to be completed for each assignment and the assessment criteria. It is important to check your work against the criteria to ensure all aspects are completed. The Canvas site will be used to communicate questions and answers related to the unit content and assessment items throughout the semester.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients
In class you will conduct a debate of a controversial issue relevant to one of the macronutrients. Your group will be assigned a for or against position on the debate topic and you will research a rationale for your position and possible rebuttals to the opposition view prior to the debate. Debates will be conducted during usual class time.
This is an authentic assessment because it replicates the requirement for nutritionists and dietitians to provide a rational argument on different viewpoints that frequently occur in multiple different settings.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details page for specific guidelines.
Assessment: Case study
You will undertake an estimation of dietary intake, through the analysis and
interpretation of a weighed food record; a 24-hour recall; and a three-day food diary. You will identify potential nutrition problems and develop evidence-based strategies in response,
taking into consideration evidence-based barriers and enablers to change. This is an authentic assessment because it involves use of real dietary intake data which is analysed and interpreted to develop strategies, replicating the role of a nutrition profession in practise.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details page for specific guidelines.
Assessment: Final Exam
You are required to complete written, timed, invigilated problem-based questions to test your ability to identify a nutrition problem and to interpret biochemical, physiological, medical and dietary data to apply your knowledge of micronutrients in real-life situations. The exam is in the format of short to medium answer responses.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited in this assessment.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Gropper, S., Smith, J and Carr, T.,(2022). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.
Software
Foodworks.online, Xyris Software. (Provided by QUT)
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no special risks associated with this unit.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.XN43 Bachelor of Nutrition Science
- Apply broad theoretical, technical and cultural knowledge and skills in food and nutrition, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, to respond to a diverse range of contexts and audiences.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study, Final Exam - Analyse and apply evidence-based research and practice to provide informed, client-centred, and sustainable solutions to sometimes complex current and emerging food and nutrition problems.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study, Final Exam - Communicate and translate technical food and nutrition information clearly, safely and inclusively using a range of oral, written and digital technologies and formats responsive to the diverse cultural, social and cognitive needs of the intended audience, communities and other professionals
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients - Perform as an inclusive, competent, culturally responsive and ethical professional, working autonomously and collaboratively on innovative and entrepreneurial approaches in food and nutrition.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study
XN45 Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours)
- Apply advanced theoretical, technical and cultural knowledge and skills in food, nutrition and dietetics, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, tailored to respond to a diverse range of contexts and audiences.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study, Final Exam - Critically analyse and apply evidence-based research and practice to generate informed, client-centred and sustainable solutions to complex current and emerging food, nutrition and dietetic problems.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study, Final Exam - Communicate and translate complex food and nutrition information effectively, safely and inclusively using a range of oral, written and digital technologies and formats, responsive to the diverse cultural, social and cognitive needs of clients, interdisciplinary teams, stakeholders and the broader community.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients - Enact inclusive, clinically adept and culturally responsive client-centred practice as a reflective, accountable and ethical professional, working autonomously and collaboratively to manage and lead innovative and entrepreneurial advances in food, nutrition and dietetics.
Relates to: Discussions on controversial topics in macronutrients , Case study - Conduct research with some independence that challenges, advances, builds capacity and assures quality in food, nutrition and dietetic practice, disseminating findings with individuals, interdisciplinary teams, stakeholders and communities.
Relates to: Case study