Mrs Vivienne Norman

My research interests lie in exploring various aspects of paediatric dysphagia, specifically its prevalence, nature and management, within the South African and African contexts.  I believe this information could inform clinical practice, policy development and support for caregivers within the unique context of low to middle income countries. My master’s research investigated the need for speech and language therapy intervention for infants and toddlers with tracheostomies. An important finding was that even though dysphagia is common in infants and toddlers with tracheostomies, it may also be linked to an underlying medical condition, not only the presence of the tracheostomy. I am currently a PhD candidate. My study investigates feeding and swallowing difficulties in young children with congenital heart defects. I supervise undergraduate and postgraduate student research concerned with paediatric dysphagia.

Qualifications:
BSc Logopedics (UCT)
M Communication Pathology (UP)

ORCID ID: 0009-0000-6480-513X