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.

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