SLP Knowledge and Skills Acquisition/Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Skills Acquisition/Learning Outcomes
In addition to the satisfactory completion of coursework and clinical practica, students must demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary for the entry-level, independent practice of speech-language pathology as specified in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Standards for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. The program has developed 10 broad learning outcomes, tied to the larger Knowledge and Skills Acquisition document. Selected learning outcomes are addressed in every didactic course and clinical practicum, and the instructor determines how those learning outcomes are measured. It is possible for a student to earn a grade of A or B in a course, yet not demonstrate one or more learning outcomes at a satisfactory level. (If a student earns a grade of C or lower for a course, remediation or learning outcomes is automatically required.)Remediation of learning outcomes. If a student does not meet one or more learning outcomes of a course, the instructor will work with the student to develop a plan outlining the steps for acquiring the lacking knowledge and skills. The plan must include requirements to receive credit for the learning outcome(s), along with a date of completion. Completion dates must be before the mid-term of the semester following the course enrollment. Failure to successfully complete the requirements as established will result in the student being referred for an individualized student support plan. Support plans may include the requirement to enroll in additional coursework. Failure to complete the support plan in a timely manner may delay graduation and ultimately may result in dismissal from the program.The program director will provide students with regular feedback regarding progress toward the degree and toward the acquisition of the required knowledge and skills through Plan of Study meetings and individual counseling as needed.
Speech-Language Pathology Learning Outcomes (graduate)
Upon completion of the speech-language pathology graduate program, students will be able to: (examples of possible assignments the students will complete to accomplish the Learning Outcome)Integrate research principles and processes into evidence-based clinical practice
(Conduct a literature search on a topic related to evidence-based practice. Obtain and review at least 7 research articles related to the topic.)Select, administer, and interpret assessment measures appropriate to various types of communication disorders and differences
(Develop, administer, and interpret a voice assessment on a person at-risk for a voice disorder. Administer, score, and interpret at least one formal adult language assessment procedure.)Apply knowledge of basic human communication and swallowing processes to the evaluation of possible disorders and differences
(Transcribe both normal and disordered speech, using the narrow transcription. Label normal oropharyngeal anatomy on a lateral x-ray.)Use assessment data to develop differential diagnoses, prognostic statements, and recommendations
(Complete an assignment related to the use, management, and troubleshooting of hearing aids and FM systems for individuals with hearing loss. Determine individuals’ candidacy for intervention and write prognostic statements for improvement of communicative function.)Develop and implement culturally sensitive, age-appropriate intervention plans to be implemented in health care and educational delivery systems
(Write a report evaluating a published fluency therapy plan. Write a treatment plan and/or discharge summary that is age-appropriate and culturally sensitive for a virtual adult patient with an acquired language disorder in a health care system.)Provide effective counseling/education to clients/patients, caregivers, and other professionals
(Develop materials related to typical or disordered speech production, appropriate for caregivers or other service providers. Participate in clinical experiences which include successful counseling of individuals with a communication disorder.)Identify risk factors and recommend prevention strategies
(Maintain a weekly vocal hygiene journal, documenting vocal abuses/misuses and associated strategies to improve vocal health. Identify risk factors associated with dysphagia and/or aspiration pneumonia and recommend strategies to prevent secondary complications.)Use professional writing skills to document assessment and treatment procedures and results
(Complete a medical chart entry (SOAP note) based on a speech-language therapy session for a virtual adult patient with an acquired language disorder. Write appropriate and measurable goals for a virtual patient with a motor speech disorder.)Apply standards of ethical conduct and professional behavior to clinical practice
(Write a brief summary following a class discussion during which an ethical dilemma was the topic and present it to the instructor one week after the discussion. Summarize the ethical issues involved in conducting and reporting research.)Identify the impact of regulatory, legislative, and credentialing issues on service delivery
(Write an essay related to an assigned regulatory or legislative issue. Identify reimbursement and regulatory issues affecting the provision of AAC services.)
