Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perceptions of Pre-Service Knowledge and Skill Training in Early Intervention

Abstract

Two survey instruments were used to gather information from speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and university personnel (UP) regarding their perceptions of the adequacy of SLP training for providing early intervention (EI) services. In the SLP survey, respondents were asked to rate their perceptions of training adequacy in specific EI Knowledge and Skill Acquisition (KASA) areas. UP were also surveyed regarding their perceptions of the adequacy of their programs’ academic preparation in EI. Results from 189 SLPs employed in EI settings indicated that less than 50% agreed that their academic preparation in the majority of EI knowledge and skill areas was adequate. However, with the exception of service coordination and linguistic diversity, the majority of UP (90%–100%) perceived that their graduate programs provided students with adequate training for serving EI populations. Implications of respondents’ differing perspectives will be discussed.