Legal Issues and Computer Use by School-Based Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to review the ethical and legal issues regarding the integration and application of computer technologies into the schools, particularly when used by speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Four broad issues are addressed: (a) software copyright and licensed use, (b) information access and the right to privacy, (c) computer-assisted or computer-administrated assessment and intervention, and (d) documentation. When using computer technologies, the practicing clinician should focus on clinical competencies and professional responsibilities in order to avoid the ethical pitfalls and legal traps associated with the integration of these technologies into schools. This is best achieved when the clinician has a current and broad knowledge domain, displays sound clinical judgment, and demonstrates competent clinical skills when applying computer technologies.