Overview of the field of communication disorders. Survey and classification of communication disorders; identifying assessment and treatment of speech, language, swallowing and hearing disorders. Includes guided observation of 3 hours of speech therapy sessions. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Speech sound production and disorders, including a study of the International Phonetic Alphabet for classification, analysis, and transcription. Consideration for cultural and linguistic variations. Approaches and procedures for screening and intervention of speech sound disorders. Includes guided observation of 3 hours of speech therapy sessions. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Typical speech, language and hearing development including acquisition of phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, and pragmatics; communication development in bilingual populations; and differentiation of typical from disordered communication. Study of prevention, assessment and intervention practices for language and literacy disorders in children and adolescents. Includes guided observation of 3 hours of speech therapy sessions. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Professional issues in the field of communication disorders with emphasis on practice as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. Regulatory and ethical considerations, scope of responsibilities, and supervision. Practice issues including cultural and linguistic diversity, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), documentation, data collection, objectives, and treatment implementation. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Screening, assessment and intervention practices and procedures for communication disorders. Examination of learning theories, lesson/session planning, behavioral modification, and reinforcement techniques. Includes guided observation of 3 hours of speech therapy sessions No credit if taken after SPCH 123. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Speech, language, and hearing disorders of the adult population. Assessment and Intervention practices for adult acquired neurogenic communication disorders. Includes guided observation of 3 hours of speech therapy sessions. Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory.

Field work experience in the clinical management of persons with communicative disorders, in the role of a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. Opportunities to interact with clients/patients at assigned clinical sites while implementing prescribed treatment plans, assisting with screening or assessment, record keeping and managing of clinical data, setting up clinical equipment and materials, and performing various clerical duties as needed, under the supervision of a qualified Speech-Language Pathologist. Students will participate in at least 100 required hours of clinical field work, scheduled for at least two full days per week, with 80 hours in direct provision of speech therapy services. Students must provide their own transportation to the clinical site(s). Total: 108 hours of field practice.

Investigation of critical-thinking and decision-making skills related to technical proficiency of a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA). Examination of requirements for state licensing and national certification. Total of 18 hours lecture.