Course: Language Disorders in Early Childhood

Course Description:
This course explores the essential milestones and characteristics of language acquisition in young children (birth to age 5), emphasizing both typical and atypical development. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the role of speech-language pathologists in prevention, assessment, and intervention strategies. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on models of service delivery, relevant legislation, and available resources for families, educators, and service providers. Hands-on experience with language sampling and analysis is a key component of the course.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
1. Understand the linguistic, developmental, and cultural aspects of communication in young children.
2. Identify etiology and characteristics of language disorders in infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
3. Analyze genetic and congenital factors affecting communication development.
4. Describe evidence-based practices for prevention, assessment, and intervention.
5. Relate language development to cognitive, literacy, and social-emotional growth.
6. Recognize risk factors associated with communication disorders.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of caregiver-child relationships and socio-cultural impacts on communication.
8. Synthesize assessment information to develop appropriate diagnoses and intervention plans.
9. Administer and interpret assessments effectively.
10. Address how cultural and linguistic diversity influences language development and treatment.

Teaching Philosophy & Methods:
The course is designed to encourage critical thinking and clinical judgment through supervised exploration. Engaging, hands-on projects and analysis of real-life scenarios foster an environment where students can build upon foundational knowledge. Each assignment is meaningful, preparing students for professional roles post-graduation.

Assignments and Grading:
Assessment of student progress includes weekly online quizzes, a syntax competency test, a SALT project, round table presentations on assessment tools, a focus paper on therapy techniques, a Simucase intervention simulation, midterm and final exams, and a comprehensive final project that includes both group and individual components.

Key Assessments Covered:
Students will familiarize themselves with a variety of screening and assessment tools tailored for infants and preschoolers, including standardized tests and informal measures.

This course not only provides foundational knowledge in language disorders but also equips students with practical skills to address the needs of young children and their families effectively.