A Survey And Cohort Intervention Using Indirect Speech And Language Therapy For Children With Primary Language Impairment In Schools

Citation

McCartney E (2004) A Survey And Cohort Intervention Using Indirect Speech And Language Therapy For Children With Primary Language Impairment In Schools. NHS Scotland. Glasgow: West of Scotland Primary Care NHS Trust. https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/6745/

Abstract
A cohort intervention was carried, out with 42 children with primary language impairment (PLI) receiving intervention from education staff in their mainstream school following discussion with and on the advice of a speech and language therapist (SLT). This is a widely-used consultancy model. No significant language gains were made on standardised language or reading tests, but the children fared as well as a comparable group in another research project who received community-based SLT services. The model was broadly acceptable to schools, but amount and patterns of intervention varied considerably amongst school classes. A survey of SLT managers provided a critique of the model, confirming that variation in implementation would be a likely issue. SLT services adopting this model will require to undertake careful audit of service provision and monitor the implementation of intervention in schools.

Keywords
speech therapy; language impairment; children; education and professional studies; Special aspects of education; Child Health; Child health services

People

Professor Elspeth McCartney

Honorary Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences