UNDERSTANDING THE GAP: SCHOOL-BASED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND THE UNDERUSE OF CLASSROOM-BASED SERVICES

Abstract

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working in school settings deliver specialized support tochildren with speech-language impairments. This Capstone focuses on the work of school-based SLPs with their high-incidence language students working on receptive and expressive language in inclusion settings. It provides an examination of models of the use of evidence-based research, the factors influencing SLP-teacher collaboration and service delivery, and the barriers contributing to the underuse of classroom-based service delivery. Section One introduces the problem, outlining its historical context and continued importance in current practice. This section also presents the problem of practice and the five guiding research questions. Section Two, the literature review, provides a comprehensive overview of current and historical research related to service delivery in schools. It includes findings from empirical studies and surveys conducted with SLPs that highlight long-standing issues affecting current practice. Section Three outlines a proposed multi-level framework for increasing the use of classroom-based services at the national, state, district, and school levels. Drawing from the literature and Kotter’s (1996) 8- Step Process for Leading Change, this section addresses action priorities that create a sense of urgency and build a coalition for sustained change across all levels. Benchmark change and projected outcomes for each level provide possible next steps for implementation. Section Four summarizes the project’s findings as well as provides critical actions and practical recommendations to support the integration of classroom-based services. Section Five describes a final product for presentation at conferences and meetings and an accompanying dissemination that includes an informational poster, along with audience-specific resource pamphlets (e.g., national, state, district, or school level professionals). These materials are designed to communicate the Capstone’s findings and recommendations to practicing SLPs and other stakeholders in the field.