Date of Award
Fall 2013
Project Type
Thesis
Program or Major
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Degree Name
Master of Science
First Advisor
Rae M Sonnenmeier
Abstract
Despite increasing popularity surrounding the implementation of the iPad in therapy by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with students who have complex communication needs (CCNs), no research to date has explored professional development (PD) training and its outcome on SLPs knowledge, skill, and confidence in using the iPad as a speech-generating device (SGD). The present research explores the effect of PD and practice on the knowledge, skills, and confidence of three school-based SLPs, ages 43 to 59, implementing the Speak for Yourself! application on the iPad in therapy with students who have CCNs over 12 weeks.
Changes in the SLP's perceived knowledge, skill, and confidence were measured through pre- and post-surveys, pre- and post-interviews, and weekly data collection sheets. The data were reported through descriptive summaries and organized into a series of figures and tables. Preliminary findings suggest providing PD and time for practice has a positive impact on SLPs' perceived knowledge, skill, and confidence in using the iPad as a SGD.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Kelsey S., "The Effect of Specific Professional Development on Speech-Language Pathologists' Perceptions of Their Knowledge, Skill, and Confidence in using the iPad as a Speech-Generating Device with Students who have Complex Communication Needs" (2013). Master's Theses and Capstones. 799.
https://scholars.unh.edu/thesis/799