The KASE for telepractice: Examining the knowledge and self-efficacy of speech-language pathologists

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Telehealth
• Educational Psychology

Background:

• Investigates knowledge and confidence of US school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in telepractice.
• Identifies predictors of SLPs' self-efficacy for telepractice service delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current telepractice knowledge and confidence levels among school-based SLPs.
• To determine factors influencing SLPs' self-efficacy in telepractice.

Main Methods:

• Online survey administered to 514 school-based SLPs in the U.S.
• Survey included sections on demographics, general self-efficacy, telepractice knowledge, and telepractice-specific self-efficacy.

Main Results:

• Over 50% of SLPs reported high telepractice knowledge and confidence, with higher confidence in intervention than assessment.
• Telepractice knowledge and general self-efficacy significantly correlated with telepractice self-efficacy.
• Telepractice knowledge and general self-efficacy predicted 56% of the variance in telepractice self-efficacy; experience did not.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing SLPs' telepractice knowledge and general self-efficacy is crucial for increasing telepractice self-efficacy and improving client outcomes.
• A growth mindset, indicated by general self-efficacy, influences confidence in telepractice delivery.
• Preservice and professional development should focus on equipping SLPs with essential telepractice knowledge and confidence.