| The aim of this study was to increase understanding of what is considered key information for
entry-level speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serving children who are deaf or hard-of-
hearing (DHH). Specifically, this study explored skills and strategies that could be integrated
into SLP graduate curriculum to increase entry-level provider confidence and knowledge. An
online survey was distributed to providers of the DHH within the United States and included a)
skills and strategies recommended for entry-level providers serving children who are DHH b)
barriers experienced by entry-level providers and c) demographics. The skills and strategies that
emerged as most important according to participants (n=63) can be applied to populations
outside of children who are DHH (i.e., understanding language development). Therefore, it is
recommended that graduate programs incorporate exposure to the DHH population into courses
and clinical opportunities that already exist within the curriculum to increase entry-level provider
confidence in effectively serving this population.
Key Words: Speech-Language Pathologist, Children who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing, Entry-
Level Skillset, Confidence, Graduate Programs |