Perceptions of Parents, Speech Language Pathologists on Telepractice Effectiveness in Communication Difficulties among Children at Kenya Institute of Special Education

Abstract

Tele practice has become a vital method of offering speech and language therapy, this method is especially more popular in low-income households where there are challenges such as limited financial resources, distance barriers, which makes it difficult to access in person therapy sessions. This study investigated the level at which different stakeholders such as parents; caregivers and speech and language pathologists rated the use of tele practice as an alternative in helping children with communication difficulties at the Kenya institute of Special Education (KISE). This study was anchored on Giddens's theory of Modernity. The study made use of the mixed methods approach which amalgamated different numbers from records of attendance, satisfaction ratings and results of therapy given with the views collected by the use of interviews. The study findings noted that majority of the participants had a positive view of tele practice, highlighting that it offers convenience, is cheaper as compared to in person sessions and is accessible from anywhere. Some of the disadvantages were noted which included unstable network connectivity in some areas, the attention span of children is limited during the online sessions and the lack of the personal touch that can only be afforded by physical interaction during therapy. Those involved noted that it was satisfactory with a 40% mark, 20% were not satisfied, while 13% remained neutral, and 27% were very satisfied. The regression analysis done pointed out that articulation improvement, quality as highlighted by participants and the need to recommend teletherapy were the greatest indicators of tele practice success (F-2.871, P- 0.042). The study concluded that Tele practice is practical and a very effective method of helping address communication difficulties but the challenges highlighted should be addressed.