Issues in Speech and Language Pathology
School-based speech and language pathology (SLP services are impacted by a number of variables, including education reform, professional certification and training, healthcare services financing, and the development of school-based services that address the condition known as dysphagia. According to Newman (2001), pediatric dysphagia has become one of the more significant conditions that SLPs are being asked to diagnose and treat; the incidence of swallowing disorders appears to be increasing, and the severity of the condition has mandated intervention in the school environment. Specifically, says Newman (2001), the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) has created a framework within which SLPs in the school environment are being asked to provide diagnosis as well as therapeutic interventions for children who have dysphagia. Screening of children at risk for development of this condition is a critical school-based SLP task.
Warren (2000) examined this issue and commented that early intervention is now a major focus of SLP work in the school setting. Many children, especially those from low-income or minority backgrounds, do not receive adequate medical care and screening from pediatricians during the preschool years. Consequently, Warren (2000) sees the challenges facing SLPS in school settings as: 1) increasing support for responsive interaction styles among all parents, childcare workers, and early interventionists; 2) expanding efforts to identify communication delays and disorders as early as possible; 3) development of more effective communication and language intervention approaches; 4) integration of research findings into daily practice. Moving toward inclusive and trans-disciplinary practice, particularly in terms of multicultural populations, is seen by Warren (2000) as necessary in the educational environment today.
From the perspective of Whitmire (2002), educati...