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Supervising Speech Pathology Students
“SUPERVISION is a process that consists of a variety of patterns of behavior, the appropriateness of which depends upon the needs, competencies, expectations and philosophies of the supervisor and the supervisee and the specifics of the situation (task, client, setting,and other variables).” (McCrea, E & Braseur, J, 2003) The goal is to enhance the skills and knowledge of the supervisee, by providing self-analysis and problem solving skills.
Supervising speech pathology students can be more work. However, there are some positives to having a student. Students are learning new information and research in their classes and can bring additional information to the clinical practicum. They also frequently ask questions that make us think about our evaluation and therapy options.
Being a mentor is important to give back to our field. Speech pathology is expanding and supervising helps to bring new professionals into our field. Professional growth and career development are also benefits of supervision. It can provide a leadership opportunity to provide knowledge to another person.
There are a few requirements if you are thinking of supervising a graduate student.
- Hold a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association
- Supervisors must have competency in the area that they are supervising the student
- Supervisors do not need a certain number of years, but one must have sufficient knowledge to educate a student
- According to Standard IV-E of the SLP Certification Handbook: ”Direct supervision must be in real time and must never be less than 25% of the student’s total contact with each client/patient and must take place periodically throughout the practicum. These are minimum requirements that should be adjusted upward if the student’s level of knowledge, experience, and competence warrants.”
- “The amount of supervision must be appropriate to the student’s level of knowledge, experience, and competence. Supervision must be sufficient to ensure the welfare of the client/patient.”
- Supervisors must have clinical competency in supervision. This can be done through classes, continuing education courses, etc.
Asha has more information on requirements and frequently asked questions concerning the supervision of students.
A challenge for many speech pathologists who choose to supervisor students may be meeting productivity standards. Some work environments may demand 75% productivity. There must be a balance between providing high quality service to our clients while also providing efficient supervision. The most difficult may be with a novice clinician.
The first few days, the student would need the most supervision. The supervisor would demonstrate how to perform the evaluation and effective goal setting and treatment plans. Then the supervisor can expect the student to perform more of the evaluations and therapy independently as they gain competence. A supervisor meeting can be held to review cases and questions. Determine the feedback that is preferred and the students learning style. Student strengths, areas that require improvement, and suggestions to make the improvement can be reviewed. Constant feedback is important and also having the student provide feedback on his or her own session would be beneficial. Try to have an agenda for each meeting and review goals and objectives for the client cases.
Evaluate yourself during supervision:
Ask yourself, “Did I…..
- Make clear the expected behaviors/desired results
- Provide instructions in a clear, understandable manner
- Invite dialog/discussion
- Provide specific/appropriate feedback
- Answer supervisee’s questions
- Demonstrate a supportive, encouraging attitude rather than being judgmental or punitive.
- Make time for planning on a weekly basis
- Schedule regular supervisory conferences
Resources:
McCrea, Elizabeth S. andBrasseur, Judith A., The Supervisory Process inSpeech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Allyn& Bacon, 2003, p. 8
Related posts:
- Request for Speech Consultation- Teacher Form
- Speech Pathology
- Preparing for a Degree in Speech Pathology
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