Mark Ylvisaker's Influence on Interprofessional Learning for Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Students

Abstract

Mark Ylvisaker has left an undeniable mark on the field of speech-language pathology, particularly in the assessment and treatment of persons with traumatic brain injuries. Ylvisaker's work continues to hold relevance in the training of new and future clinicians and is now influencing a second generation of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). In this article, some of Ylvisaker's major intervention philosophies are discussed, which include the use of contextualized interventions, antecedent-based behavior management, the use of metaphors in intervention and research, and case-based decision making or patient specific hypothesis testing. Ylvisaker was also heavily influenced by his experience with other professional fields. In the spirit of Ylvisaker's emphasis on case-based research and value of interprofessional perspectives, data from an interprofessional education (IPE) experience performed at The University of Akron in conjunction with the Austen BioInnovation was presented. The data collected from the IPE explores the preparedness of students entering the healthcare profession in serving on inter-disciplinary teams, including those studying speech-language pathology. Results show the need for greater training and exposure to similar interprofessional experiences for graduate students studying speech-language pathology.