Vivash, J;
Dockrell, J;
Lee, F;
(2018)
The re-alignment of educational psychologists in supporting primary schools to enhance provision for children with speech language and communication needs.
Educational and Child Psychology
pp. 43-59.
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Abstract
Aims: The role of educational psychologists (EPs) in relation to Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) has been relatively unexplored and when studies have targeted the role of EPs, their role has been at best peripheral. This paper aims to show how the re-alignment of EP practice could be made through exploring the different perspectives of how SLCN can be supported in schools, and to see where gaps and opportunities may exist between these perceptions and practice. Method: Three focus groups with professionals (EPs, Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) and Specialist Teachers (STT)) were conducted and analysed using thematic analysis. 12 observations of Key Stage 1 classrooms using the Communication Supporting Classroom Observation Tool, and questionnaires with school staff (N = 40) were carried out and analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings: There was variability of perceptions and inconsistency of practice around strategies and approaches for supporting SLCN, such as the use of evidence-based interventions, adult talk and opportunities to develop emerging literacy skills. Conclusions: There are challenges in delivering provision for children with SLCN, confounded by an apparent discrepancy within and between professionals’ and schools’ views as to how such provision should be delivered. EPs are uniquely positioned to support schools in overcoming these challenges, particularly through joint problem solving and resolving tensions which may exist between services, and supporting schools to translate research into effective practice.
| Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Title: | The re-alignment of educational psychologists in supporting primary schools to enhance provision for children with speech language and communication needs |
| Open access status: | An open access version is available from UCL Discovery |
| Publisher version: | https://shop.bps.org.uk/publications/publication-b... |
| Language: | English |
| Additional information: | This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions. |
| Keywords: | Speech, language and communication needs; educational psychologists; provision; inclusion; interventions. |
| UCL classification: | UCL UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Education UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Education > UCL Institute of Education UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Education > UCL Institute of Education > IOE - Psychology and Human Development |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10060457 |
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