Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Disorders

Catalog description

Etiologies and classifications of cerebral anomalies, with an emphasis on cerebral palsy, are reviewed. The evaluation and treatment of speech, language and hearing problems are the focus of this elective course. Concomitant neuromuscular deficits that may require classroom modifications and augmentative and alternative approaches to communication are referenced. This course will also cover developmental disabilities in children including Intellectual Disability, Fragile–X syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Neural Tube Defects, and Down’s Syndrome. The impact of these disorders on development, with primarily on speech, language, feeding and communication, is emphasized. The effect of these communication disorders in educational settings is presented, including individualizing learning and education modifications, classroom settings including inclusion and general education settings, and more individualized classroom and specialized school environments. Relevant Federal, state, and local statutes, laws, regulations and guidelines are included in course content. Throughout the course, attention is given to cultural sensitivity and issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion as they might impact assessment, diagnosis, and/or intervention. Issues of health care disparity in the treatment of individuals with disability will be addressed. The understanding of IEPs, referrals, due process, appeals and the speech-language pathologist’s participation in each of these areas is also presented.