Course: Introduction to Speech Sound Disorders
SLP 321 | 4 Quarter Hours
Catalog Description: This course provides an in-depth study of phonological and articulatory development in children, focusing on the etiology, symptomatology, evaluation, and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders. Students will gain 5 clinical observation hours as part of the course requirements. Prerequisites: SLP 101 or instructor consent.
Course Description: Designed to prepare students for graduate-level studies in speech sound disorders, this course introduces key concepts in phonetics and phonology, normal phonological development, assessment techniques, diagnostic interpretation, treatment planning, and intervention selection. The course also emphasizes multicultural principles and considerations relevant to assessment and intervention practices, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Student Learning Experiences: Students will engage in:
Interactive labs and assignments
Online quizzes and tests
Weekly assignments
Clinical observations
Discussions
Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion, students will be able to:
Understand the nature of speech sound disorders in infants and children and associated risk factors.
Apply principles of typical phonological development for assessment and intervention.
Conduct formal and informal assessments of speech in children, including result interpretation and diagnosis.
Develop intervention strategies for children with speech sound disorders.
Consider multicultural and linguistic factors in assessment and treatment.
Demonstrate knowledge of culturally competent service delivery.
Assessments of Learning:
Assessment Lab: Observe a standardized articulation test video, transcribe speech samples, and submit a reflective paper.
In-Class & Home Exercises: Weekly assignments to reinforce knowledge and skills, discussed in class.
Quizzes: Weekly quizzes to assess comprehension of course material.
Exams: Three cumulative exams to evaluate knowledge, application, and analysis of course content.
Discussion Posts: Weekly engagement with discussion questions, requiring initial posts and peer replies.
ASHA Observation Hours: Completion of 5 observation hours with children exhibiting speech sound disorders, primarily through recorded sessions at the DePaul Speech Language Clinic.
This course equips students with essential knowledge and skills needed for clinical practice in speech sound disorders, paving the way for effective intervention and support for children with communication challenges.
