Disorder Topic Presentations/Discussions

Each group will present information about a developmental disorder impacting communication and/or swallowing. It is expected that every member of the group will significantly contribute to both preparation and presentation/discussion.

For the assigned topic, groups should:

• identify relevant "overview" readings (text, articles, web pages)
  • make these readings accessible to the participants at least one week in advance
  • develop an introductory activity that will allow participants to demonstrate they have read the material
• develop an instructional activity
  • the group should be prepared to "teach" the information using appropriate pedagogy
  • content
    • overview of the etiology, including definitions, causes, subtypes, characteristics, etc
    • thorough discussion of the impact of the condition on communication and swallowing
    • assessment issues relevant to the condition
    • thorough discussion of the management strategies relevant to the condition
  • form
    • your instructional activity may take many forms. The following list of suggestions is not exhaustive:
      • powerpoint presentation
      • invited speakers
      • video (or live) examples
      • diagnosis and/or treatment demonstrations
      • review activity
• develop a printed handout or web page for participants
  • highlight most critical information about the topic
  • identify community and other resources for persons with this condition and their families and caregivers
  • provide a detailed reference list and bibliography
• facilitate a discussion of evidenced-based practice
  • identify 3 peer-reviewed articles describing the communication/swallowing characteristics, assessment, treatment methods and/or contemporary controversy related to the condition
• make these articles available to participants at least 1 week prior to the discussion
• lead a discussion of the articles and their application to clinical practice
• develop a case scenario to apply the information presented

Topic Assignments:

• Cleft Palate (October 19 & 26):
• Down Syndrome (November 2):
• Cerebral Palsy (November 9 & 16):
• Developmental Apraxia of Speech (November 23 & 30):

Grading Schema