How to Recruit, Support, and Retain Speech-Language Pathologists in Public Schools

2020 ◽  
pp. 105268462096606
Author(s):  
Kelly Farquharson ◽  
Michelle Therrien ◽  
Andrea Barton-Hulsey ◽  
Ann F. Brandt
Keyword(s):  
Public Schools ◽  
School Leadership ◽  
The United States ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Highly Qualified ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Job Openings ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Bureau Of Labor Statistics

Over the past two decades, there has been a persistent shortage of qualified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) across the United States. This shortage is predicted to continue, as data reported by the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that there will be a 27% increase in job openings through the year 2028. In some states, the shortage has led to service provision from individuals without a background in speech-language pathology and/or without speech-language pathology certification and licensure. Speech and language services that are delivered by unqualified personnel may lead to inadequate time devoted to therapy—either too much, or too little—which is ultimately unethical, illegal, and expensive. However, there is a real issue at hand for school leadership—and that is: How to recruit, support, and retain highly qualified SLPs? In the current tutorial, we will provide evidence-based action steps for how and why to recruit, support, and retain certified and licensed SLPs. Specifically, we discuss the qualifications of the SLP, roles and responsibilities of school-based SLPs, caseload versus workload considerations, various service delivery models, and a review of SLP job satisfaction research. Throughout the tutorial, we will provide concrete and evidence-based ideas for school leadership to consider when recruiting, supporting, and retaining SLPs.

Speech-Language Pathology in the Peace Corps: Necessity and Sustainability

2012 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-18
Author(s):  
Melissa A. Pierce
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Special Education ◽  
Peace Corps ◽  
People With Disabilities ◽  
Communication Disorders ◽  
The United States ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Language Pathology

In countries other than the United States, the study and practice of speech-language pathology is little known or nonexistent. Recognition of professionals in the field is minimal. Speech-language pathologists in countries where speech-language pathology is a widely recognized and respected profession often seek to share their expertise in places where little support is available for individuals with communication disorders. The Peace Corps offers a unique, long-term volunteer opportunity to people with a variety of backgrounds, including speech-language pathologists. Though Peace Corps programs do not specifically focus on speech-language pathology, many are easily adapted to the profession because they support populations of people with disabilities. This article describes how the needs of local children with communication disorders are readily addressed by a Special Education Peace Corps volunteer.

Confidence and Training of Speech-Language Pathologists in Cognitive-Communication Disorders: Time to Rethink Graduate Education Models?

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (2S) ◽  
pp. 986-992 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily L. Morrow ◽  
Lyn S. Turkstra ◽  
Melissa C. Duff
Keyword(s):  
Graduate Education ◽  
Acute Care ◽  
Communication Disorders ◽  
The United States ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Communication Course ◽  
Graduate Curriculum ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
And Training

Purpose The purpose of this article is to highlight the need for increased focus on cognitive communication in North American speech-language pathology graduate education models. Method We describe key findings from a recent survey of acute care speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United States and expand upon the ensuing discussion at the 2020 International Cognitive-Communication Disorders Conference to consider some of the specific challenges of training for cognitive communication and make suggestions for rethinking how to prepare future clinicians to manage cognitive-communication disorders. Results Results from the survey of acute care SLPs indicated inconsistent confidence and training in managing cognitive-communication disorders. We discuss the pros and cons of several avenues for improving the consistency of cognitive-communication training, including a standalone cognitive-communication course, integrating cognitive communication in all courses across the speech-language pathology undergraduate and graduate curriculum, and using problem-based learning frameworks to better prepare students as independent thinkers in the area of cognitive communication and beyond. Conclusions Cognitive-communication disorders cut across clinical diagnoses and settings and are one of the largest and fastest growing parts of the SLP's scope of practice. Yet, surveys, including the one discussed here, have repeatedly indicated that SLPs do not feel prepared or confident to work with individuals with cognitive-communication disorders. We propose several avenues for increasing educational emphasis on cognitive communication. We hope these ideas will generate discussion and guide decision making to empower SLPs to think critically and step confidently into their roles as leaders in managing the heterogeneous and ever-growing populations of individuals with cognitive-communication disorders.

Adopting a Conceptual Validity Framework for Testing in Speech-Language Pathology

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-15
Author(s):  
Olivia Daub ◽  
Barbara Jane Cunningham ◽  
Marlene P. Bagatto ◽  
Andrew M. Johnson ◽  
Elaine Y. Kwok ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Educational Research ◽  
American Educational Research Association ◽  
Psychological Testing ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Research Association ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Major Barrier ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Test Use

Purpose Limited evidence-based guidelines for test selection continue to result in inconsistency in test use and interpretation in speech-language pathology. A major barrier is the lack of explicit and consistent adoption of a validity framework by our field. In this viewpoint, we argue that adopting the conceptual validity framework in the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing (American Educational Research Association et al., 2014) would support both the development of more meaningful and feasible clinical tests and more appropriate use and interpretation of tests in speech-language pathology. Method We describe and evaluate the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing (American Educational Research Association et al., 2014) validity framework and consider its relevance to speech-language pathology. We describe how the validity framework could be integrated into clinical practice and include examples of how it could be applied to support common clinical decisions. We evaluate the costs and benefits of adopting this framework, from the perspectives of speech-language pathologists, clients, and test developers. Results The Standards' validity framework clarifies complex validity issues by shifting the focus of validity from tests to the decisions speech-language pathologists make based on test results. By focusing on decisions, the framework requires critical evaluation of test use, rather than evaluating tests against sets of criteria. Adopting this framework has the potential for appreciable improvement in the way tests are used and valued across our profession. Conclusions Speech-language pathologists, test developers, and clients will benefit from improved evidence-based assessment practices. It is recommended that regulators, test developers, professional associations, universities, and researchers adopt the framework and endorse it as best practice moving forward. This viewpoint proposes a series of first steps toward supporting uptake of the framework into research and practice.

Evidence-Based Speech-Language Pathology Practices in Schools: Findings From a National Survey

2013 ◽  
Vol 44 (3) ◽  
pp. 266-280 ◽  
Author(s):  
LaVae M. Hoffman ◽  
Marie Ireland ◽  
Shannon Hall-Mills ◽  
Perry Flynn
Keyword(s):  
Public Schools ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Journal Articles ◽  
School Based ◽  
Resource Needs ◽  
Training Format ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Scheduled Time

Purpose This study documented evidence-based practice (EBP) patterns as reported by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) employed in public schools during 2010–2011. Method Using an online survey, practioners reported their EBP training experiences, resources available in their workplaces, and the frequency with which they engage in specific EBP activities, as well as their resource needs and future training format preferences. Results A total of 2,762 SLPs in 28 states participated in the online survey, 85% of whom reported holding the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology credential. Results revealed that one quarter of survey respondents had no formal training in EBP, 11% of SLPs worked in school districts with official EBP procedural guidelines, and 91% had no scheduled time to support EBP activities. The majority of SLPs posed and researched 0 to 2 EBP questions per year and read 0 to 4 American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) journal articles per year on either assessment or intervention topics. Conclusion Use of ASHA online resources and engagement in EBP activities were documented to be low. However, results also revealed that school-based SLPs have high interest in additional training and resources to support scientifically based practices. Suggestions for enhancing EBP support in public schools and augmenting knowledge transfer are provided.

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants Current State of Affairs

2009 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 12-18 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lemmietta McNeilly
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Public Schools ◽  
The United States ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
The Public ◽  
School Based ◽  
Current State ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Educational Requirements ◽  
State Of Affairs

Abstract The utilization of speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs) is increasing in the United States particularly in the public schools. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association provides specific guidelines regarding the training, use, and supervision of (SLPAs; ASHA, 2004). The current state of affairs of SLPAs involves variable requirements across the states to qualify for SLPA credentials. The programs that educate SLPAs have variable technical and curricular requirements, and the educational requirements for regulating SLPAs also vary across the states. School-based SLPs continue to raise questions about the supervision requirements, funding, and reimbursement issues for working with SLPA in schools across the country.

Critically Appraising Systematic Reviews in the Field of Speech-Language Pathology: A How-to Guide for Clinician Readers

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-13
Author(s):  
Cara Donohue ◽  
Giselle Carnaby ◽  
Kendrea L. (Focht) Garand
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Reviews ◽  
Evidence Based Practice ◽  
Research Work ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Clinical Settings ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
High Quality Research ◽  
Language Pathology

Purpose This tutorial will provide speech-language pathologists with foundational knowledge about systematic reviews and their importance in everyday practice. It will also assist clinicians in developing critical appraisal skills so that current research can be translated judiciously to clinical environments for patient care. Systematic reviews are often regarded as the highest level of research evidence for implementing best evidence-based practice, because they synthesize research findings from multiple high-quality research studies, identify methodological weaknesses and biases from the studies included, and assist in illuminating areas for future research work based on current gaps in the literature. While systematic reviews can provide comprehensive knowledge to inform clinical practice, few speech-language pathologists receive training on appraising and applying the findings from systematic reviews appropriately within clinical settings. Conclusion Clinicians within the field of speech-language pathology can use the framework provided in this tutorial to evaluate systematic reviews as a preliminary step for determining appropriate assessment and treatment methods for implementing evidence-based practice within clinical settings.

How To Practice “Undefensively”

2010 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 54-64 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paula Leslie ◽  
Kate Krival
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Internal Resources ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Decision Making Processes

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are increasingly challenged by the medical complexities our patients present and gripped by the fear of litigation, if patients decline physically under our care. One response to these pressures may be to practice defensive medical speech-language pathology. We propose that best practice is ethically achieved by deliberately using specific external and internal resources to practice undefensively. We suggest how consideration of these materials and processes will help SLPs ensure evaluation and clinical decision-making processes are as effective, evidence-based, and transparent to patients, caregivers, administrators, and payers as possible.

Addressing Communicative Participation in Treatment Planning for Adults: A Survey of U.S. Speech-Language Pathologists

2016 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 355-370 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janaki M. Torrence ◽  
Carolyn R. Baylor ◽  
Kathryn M. Yorkston ◽  
Kristie A. Spencer
Keyword(s):  
The United States ◽  
Barriers And Facilitators ◽  
Clinical Settings ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Outcomes Measures ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Barriers To Implementation ◽  
Life Roles

Purpose In speech-language pathology, there is increasing attention on participation-focused interventions to optimize participation in valued life roles. The purpose of this study was to investigate how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United States address life participation in therapy programs, as well as their opinions regarding barriers and facilitators to participation-focused intervention. Method An online questionnaire presented case scenarios for aphasia, dysarthria, and laryngectomy to 66 SLPs who have worked with adults. SLPs were asked to write goals and describe therapy activities for the scenarios. The final section of the questionnaire was an open-ended question regarding barriers and facilitators to participation-focused intervention. Results Many SLPs addressed participation in their rationales for therapy; 50% of goals had a participation-focused rationale. However, the goals, activities, and outcomes measures typically focused more on impairment and skill performance. Only 8% of goals specifically referenced participation. Although many SLPs stated that participation-focused intervention is important, they identified many barriers to implementation including time and productivity constraints, limits of clinical settings, and documentation challenges. Conclusions There is potential for gaps between SLPs' participation-focused rationale for therapy and activities or outcomes measures that often do not include participation elements. SLPs are interested in participation-focused treatment resources.

scholarly journals Evidence-Based Practice in Speech-Language Pathology: Where Are We Now?

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 186-198
Author(s):  
Tamar Greenwell ◽  
Bridget Walsh
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Practice ◽  
Graduate School ◽  
Evidence Based Practice ◽  
Perceived Barriers ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Clinical Practices ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Career Training ◽  
Language Pathology

Purpose In 2004, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association established its position statement on evidence-based practice (EBP). Since 2008, the Council on Academic Accreditation has required accredited graduate education programs in speech-language pathology to incorporate research methodology and EBP principles into their curricula and clinical practicums. Over the past 15 years, access to EBP resources and employer-led EBP training opportunities have increased. The purpose of this study is to provide an update of how increased exposure to EBP principles affects reported use of EBP and perceived barriers to providing EBP in clinical decision making. Method Three hundred seventeen speech-language pathologists completed an online questionnaire querying their perceptions about EBP, use of EBP in clinical practice, and perceived barriers to incorporating EBP. Participants' responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. We used multiple linear regression to examine whether years of practice, degree, EBP exposure during graduate program and clinical fellowship (CF), EBP career training, and average barrier score predicted EBP use. Results Exposure to EBP in graduate school and during the CF, perception of barriers, and EBP career training significantly predicted the use of EBP in clinical practice. Speech-language pathologists identified the three major components of EBP: client preferences, external evidence, and clinical experience as the most frequently turned to sources of EBP. Inadequate time for research and workload/caseload size remain the most significant barriers to EBP implementation. Respondents who indicated time was a barrier were more likely to cite other barriers to implementing EBP. An increase in EBP career training was associated with a decrease in the perception of time as a barrier. Conclusions These findings suggest that explicit training in graduate school and during the CF lays a foundation for EBP principles that is shaped through continued learning opportunities. We documented positive attitudes toward EBP and consistent application of the three components of EBP in clinical practice. Nevertheless, long-standing barriers remain. We suggest that accessible, time-saving resources, a consistent process for posing and answering clinical questions, and on the job support and guidance from employers/organizations are essential to implementing clinical practices that are evidence based. The implications of our findings and suggestions for future research to bridge the research-to-practice gap are discussed.

Pediatric Dysphagia: Survey Results Describing Speech-Language Pathologists' Education and Experience

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 236-245
Author(s):  
Jennifer J. Wilson ◽  
Amanda K. Simmons ◽  
Jillian H. McCarthy
Keyword(s):  
Work Experience ◽  
The United States ◽  
Speech Language Pathology ◽  
Speech Language Pathologists ◽  
Master's Students ◽  
Adequate Care ◽  
Swallowing Difficulties ◽  
Language Pathology ◽  
Survey Results ◽  
Pediatric Dysphagia

Purpose Evaluation and treatment of pediatric dysphagia, swallowing difficulties occurring during childhood, is in the speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) scope of practice; however, little is known regarding the education SLPs receive during their graduate work and afterwards to effectively assess, treat, and manage this diagnosis. Method An 11-question survey was developed to examine the experience and opinions of SLPs related to the type and extent of pediatric dysphagia education and training they have and/or should have received during their graduate education. The survey was disseminated to SLPs across the United States via social media and e-mail Listservs. Results Survey results from 134 participants across the country, with varying clinical backgrounds, indicated a lack of pediatric dysphagia education during graduate school. SLPs reported overcoming these insufficiencies through gaining work experience and pursuing continuing education units on pediatric dysphagia. SLPs overwhelmingly (> 95% of respondents) recommended a full course or unit focusing on pediatric dysphagia for master's students in speech-language pathology. Survey results found a statistically significant increase in the likelihood of completion of a pediatric dysphagia unit or course for students graduating in the last 10 years; however, this positive trajectory shows a modest increase in the availability of coursework to prepare pediatric SLPs to evaluate and treat the growing pediatric dysphagia population. Conclusions Some positive changes in SLP education can be inferred from these results; however, there is still additional work to be done to equip pediatric SLPs to provide adequate care for a growing population with pediatric dysphagia.

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