Date of Award

Spring 5-11-2018

Level of Access Assigned by Author

Open-Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Advisor

Nancy E. Hall

Second Committee Member

Paige Lane

Third Committee Member

Claire Sullivan

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this Thesis is to describe the current supporting evidence base for speech-language pathologists working within early intervention with the birth through two-years-old population. Aims: The aims of this systematic review are to determine: (a) the current evidence base of early intervention by speech-language pathologists with infants and toddlers and (b) the quality of research available. Method: An exhaustive systematic review method is used. Search terms are based on subject or index headings related to the aims of this systematic review, i.e. early intervention and speech-language pathologists. A screening method is used to identify eligible publications for the review. Results: Eight publications are considered eligible for review. Three articles are considered to have a higher-quality level of evidence. Description of all publications are included. General features of the studies are described. Conclusions: Future research is needed to add to the research-base supporting positive communication benefits by speech-language pathologists working with the birth through two-years-old population. The current evidence base for speech-language pathologists is discussed and the preliminary evidence is identified. Recommendations to continue ongoing research efforts are provided.

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