4th-year projects

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/107873

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Self-perception changes in adults post-hearing aid adoption
Ferreira, Sulette; Poonasamy, Kaylan; Warren, McKayla; Young, Tamaryn-Ann (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
Background: Despite their proven benefits for communication, hearing aids continue to show low adoption and use among individuals with hearing loss who require intervention. Various audiological factors contribute to these outcomes; however, limited research has explored the psychosocial aspects that influence hearing aid adoption and use, which could have important implications for rehabilitation strategies. Objective: This study aimed to explore changes in self-perception experienced by adults following hearing aid adoption. Method: A qualitative design was followed to thematically analyse retrospective interview responses from 42 adult participants. Participants were recruited using the Hearing Tracker and Lexie Hearing databases in the United States. Results: Participant ages ranged from 40 to 84 years (mean=70.2 years; 8.2 SD). The majority of participants were male (n=20; 66.7%), and most participants were unilateral hearing aid users (n=27; 90%). Five main themes emerged: self-awareness, overall communication, social engagement, improved quality of life, and work performance. Within these main themes, 13 sub-themes emerged, where participants described a range of positive experiences, such as greater acceptance of hearing loss, heightened confidence, and increased participation. At the same time, some negative experiences were also reported, including perceptions of no noticeable change, as well as persistent communication and hearing difficulties. Conclusion: Hearing aid adoption may support improvements in self-awareness, hearing ability, and participation in everyday life, contributing to predominantly positive changes in self-perception in adults. Although hearing aids play an important role in enhancing psychosocial outcomes, challenges still remain due to unmet expectations or limited benefits in some situations. These findings emphasise the importance and the need for holistic hearing rehabilitation and counselling to communicate both the benefits and limitations of hearing aid use in clinical settings.
The effect of self-reported handedness on auditory binaural integration and separation
Da Silva, Angelina; De Lange, Emma; Jones, Cheryl; Marais, Tyler (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
This study examined the influence of self-reported handedness on auditory binaural integration and separation performance using the Dichotic Digits Test (DDT) in normal-hearing young adults. Dichotic listening tasks provide insight into hemispheric lateralization and auditory processing, yet the specific contribution of handedness to auditory laterality remains unclear. A quantitative, cross-sectional comparative design was employed, including twenty-eight participants aged 19-24 years (16 right-handed, 12 left-handed). Although the sample size was modest, determined by feasibility constraints rather than power sufficiency, the results provide preliminary evidence that handedness modulates auditory performance. Participants completed the DDT under three conditions: binaural integration, directed attention separation, and undirected attention separation. Laterality indices were calculated, and t-tests compared ear advantage within and between groups. No significant ear advantage was observed within groups (p > 0.05); however, between-group analyses revealed significant effects, with right-handed participants demonstrating a right-ear advantage during undirected attention (p = 0.02) and integration (p = 0.005), while left-handed participants showed a left-ear advantage during integration (p = 0.04). These findings suggest that handedness influences auditory lateralization, particularly under higher cognitive or attentional demand. Findings may inform the clinical interpretation of dichotic listening assessments, highlighting the importance of considering handedness in evaluating auditory processing and hemispheric asymmetry.
Speech-language therapists’ perceptions and attitudes towards an online aphasia
Essop, Humairah; Hyland, Rachel; Mohamed, Shaziya; Roberts, Joy (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
Objective: This study aimed to explore the perceptions and attitudes of SLTs towards facilitating an online aphasia group. There is a need for this study due to the lack of information available in healthcare regarding online aphasia group therapy. The results of this study may provide initial insights for SLTs regarding the continuity of care across online platforms, specifically for online aphasia group therapy. Design and study sample: A 28-item online survey was completed by 25 recently qualified SLTs. Convenience and non-probability sampling were used to recruit respondents for the study. An explorative design was adopted. Descriptive statistics, as well as qualitative content analysis, were used. Results: Quantitative findings revealed that SLTs felt confident using technology for online aphasia group therapy and they reported on the perceived benefit as well as barriers to PWA. Qualitative findings highlighted strong group engagement supported by strategies such as peer encouragement and structured facilitation. SLTs offered suggestions to improve the delivery of online therapy such as hybrid models, culturally inclusive resources and further training to better support person-centred care. Conclusions: Newly qualified speech-Language therapists reported that facilitating the online group sessions with persons with aphasia (PWA) was an overall positive experience and offered psychosocial benefits, communication goal attainment, treatment adherence and improved quality of life for PWA. Conversely, SLTs reported technological challenges such as unstable internet connectivity, audio and visual difficulties, however they largely felt positively towards their undergraduate training and towards continuing online aphasia group therapy in future.
Correlations of auditory discrimination, phonemic awareness and literacy: evidence from a Grade 4 classroom in rural Gauteng
Dörfling, Inge; Müller, Marizaan; Van der Merwe, Jana; Viviers, Mary-Ann (University of Pretoria, 2025)
Auditory discrimination is integral in developing phonological awareness (PA), a metalinguistic skill required for language and literacy acquisition. This study investigates associations between auditory discrimination, segmenting and blending skills, and literacy outcomes such as reading speed and spelling accuracy in Grade 4 learners who transitioned from Setswana instruction to English as the language of learning and teaching (LoLT). A quantitative, retrospective, descriptive, and correlational design was used. The results indicated significant positive correlations between auditory discrimination skills and literacy skills. A strong positive correlation was found between auditory discrimination, spelling skills (rs = 0.500, p < 0.001), and reading speed (rs = 0.448, p < 0.001). Unlike prior studies, blending and segmentation skills were above age-appropriate levels for English, yet PA skills did not consistently correspond with well-established literacy skills. These outcomes are attributed to differences in phonology and orthographies, limited English exposure, and challenges of transitioning to a new LoLT without explicit support.
Cleft team members' views on breastfeeding of infants with cleft lip and/or palate
Saloojee, Aaliyah; Naude, Justine; Patrick, Kristen (University of Pretoria, 2025)
Background: Breastfeeding of infants with cleft lip and/or palate is a constantly evolving area of research with varying opinions, beliefs and practices. Local CL/P team members' views on this topic are yet to be explored . Aim: This study aimed to investigate South African cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) team members’ views on breastfeeding of infants with CL/P. Setting: A South African electronic survey study created and distributed using Qualtrics XM Software Methods: An electronic survey was distributed via QualtricsXM rendering mostly quantitative data. Permission was granted before posting an infographic on social media and networking sites. Stratified, non-probability sampling methods were used to recruit qualified healthcare professionals working with infants with CL/P. Eighteen South African CL/P team members across different disciplines, from four provinces, responded. Data were analysed descriptively . Results: Eighteen participants (100%) viewed anatomical limitations associated with the type and extent of the CL/P as the main barrier to breastfeeding for infants under their care. Many participants (n=16) recommend breastfeeding as the desired outcome for infants with CL/P; however, it is not attempted due to knowledge or systemic limitations. Although infants’ health is the main priority for team members, most professionals report a lack of adaptive breastfeeding support for mothers of infants with CL/P (n=13; 76.5%). Conclusion: South African CL/P team members perceive breastfeeding as an important but challenging feeding option. Breastfeeding outcomes are often dependent on a combination of the individual infant’s physiology, healthcare context, and maternal motivation as decision-making variables. Contribution: The findings of this study emphasise the multifactorial nature of breastfeeding challenges in infants with CL/P and highlight the need for consistent, team-based approaches by medical and allied healthcare professionals.
Uptake and Utilisation of Hearing Aids: User Perspectives on Barriers and Challenges
Nyathi, Akhona Olwethu; Skosana, Joy Buhlebesizwe; Ramonyai, Netia Tshephang; Lekwatsipa, Omphemetse Delvy (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
Objective Hearing aids are critical in reducing the impact of hearing loss; however, their adoption and long-term use remain limited. To support improved uptake and sustained use, it is important to understand the challenges and barriers users face. This study explores adult hearing aid users’ perspectives on the barriers and challenges influencing hearing aid uptake and utilisation. Method This qualitative study was part of a larger project conducted on adult hearing aid users in the United States of America. Participants were recruited from the Lexie Hearing and Hearing Tracker databases. Data which was collected using semi structured interviews was analysed retrospectively using inductive thematic analysis. Results A total number of 33 participants were included in the analysis however; demographic data was only available for 28 of these participants. Ages ranged from 30 to 84 years (mean 68.7, 10.7 SD), with the majority being male (68%; n=19), fitted with unilateral (93%; n=26) or bilateral (7%; n=2) hearing aids. Five main themes emerged: (1) Financial Accessibility and Prioritisation, (2) Psychological and Emotional Factors, (3) Social Perception and Stigma, (4) Gaps in Knowledge, Support, and Information, and (5) Hearing Aid Technology. Within these themes, 15 subthemes emerged. Participants identified affordability as a major barrier to hearing aid uptake and use. Even when clinically indicated, psychological and emotional factors often outweighed the need for hearing aids, contributing to low uptake and use. In addition, despite advances in hearing aid technology and proven benefits, participants reported inadequate informational counselling and limited clinician support as further barriers. These themes highlight the range of challenges faced, including financial constraints, emotional adjustment, stigma, insufficient professional guidance, and unmet expectations in daily life. Conclusion Hearing aid uptake and use are shaped by financial, psychological, technological, and informational barriers. Addressing these through tailored counselling, structured support, and public awareness is essential to improve uptake and long-term utilisation.
Written language in social media and digital communication shorthand: a comparative study
Madikologa, Philisile; Ziqubu, Khanyisa (University of Pretoria, 2025)
The emergence of Short Message Systems (SMS) dates to the 1980s. In recent years, technological advancements have played a significant role in the development of new language forms, now commonly known as digital communication shorthand (DCS). This mixed-method longitudinal study explored the perspectives of Grade 7 to 12 English First Additional – and English Home Language educators on the possible influence of DCS language forms on their learners' formal written language skills. Data was collected via an online Qualtrics questionnaire from educators across South Africa. The results indicated a perceived negative influence of DCS language forms on the learner’s formal written language skills. Furthermore, educators acknowledged their role in supporting the learners who display written language difficulties attributed to using DCS in their formal written language tasks. Extended research should explore ways educators can help these learners’ written language skills.
Technology use by Undergraduate South African Speech-Language Therapists in clinical practice : What we know and where do we go?
Haasbroek, Joelene; Grobler, Iva; Vollmer, Erika; Rossouw, Danelle (University of Pretoria, 2025)
Background: Technology is transforming speech-language therapy by enhancing accessibility and client engagement through tools, such as telehealth and therapy applications (apps). Most tools were developed in high-income countries, limiting their relevance in South Africa’s diverse linguistic and cultural context. Undergraduate students face barriers, including limited training and uncertainty about app quality. Objective: This study described factors influencing South African SLT students’ selection and use of technology in clinical practice, and explored their perceived benefits, challenges, readiness, and self-assessed competence. Method: The study was conducted at a South African university among senior undergraduate SLT students with clinical experience in resource-limited environments. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was administered to 31 participants using a 27-item online questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed statistically, and qualitative responses thematically. Results: Limited use of digital tools (48.4%), with reliance on social media (87.1%). The majority (90.3%) of participants reported no use of telehealth or therapy applications. Benefits included improved client engagement (64.5%) and easier access to resources (58.1%), although most agreed that digital tools cannot replace in-person therapy (83.9%). Confidence in technology use was moderate (64.5%), with few feeling competent (12.9%) and nearly all expressing a strong need for further training (96.8%). Conclusions: The study highlights the gap between the availability of digital tools and the preparedness of South African SLT students to use them effectively, underscoring the need for structured training and contextually relevant resources in undergraduate curricula.
Emergent Literacy Beliefs and Practices of Early Childhood Development Practitioners in Low-Resource Communities
Daves, Abbigail; Nieuwenhuis, Cherize; Saint, Loren; Pike, Megan (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
Research has consistently established the importance of the development of emergent literacy skills in early childhood years as the foundation for later academic success. In South Africa, systemic challenges such as limited resources, multilingualism and insufficient ECD practitioner training often hamper effective literacy curriculum delivery. While evidence shows that practitioners’ beliefs and practices shape their pedagogical choices and are therefore central to how literacy is supported in early childhood, limited research has explored these dynamics in underserved South African contexts. This study explored the beliefs and practices of ECD practitioners in a low-resource South African community with regards to emergent literacy. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey design was employed. Thirty-six ECD practitioners working in ECD centres in, a low-resourced community participated. Data were collected using a structured electronic questionnaire on the Qualtrics platform, adapted from Smit et al. (2020) and Sandvik et al. (2014). Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed to examine practitioner beliefs and practices. The results showed that ECD practitioners strongly endorsed their role in promoting emergent literacy, reporting frequent use of practices such as shared book reading and interactive strategies that foster vocabulary, phonological awareness and comprehension. Findings also highlighted systemic barriers, including inadequate resources, multilingual factors and limited training, as well as practitioners’ expressed feelings of underpreparedness and a recurring desire for greater caregiver involvement in supporting children’s literacy. ECD practitioners in underserved contexts demonstrate strong role commitment and resilience in fostering emergent literacy, despite systemic constraints and feelings of underpreparedness. Addressing these barriers through resource-sensitive professional development training and strengthened caregiver collaboration may support ECD practitioners in enhancing the literacy outcomes for children in low-resource South African communities.
ECD practitioners’ perspectives on a linguistically and contextually adapted developmental milestone resource (Birth - 3 years 11 months)
Jacobsen, Adine; Muswede, Zwivhuya; Ncube, Samkeliso (University of Pretoria, 2025-10)
Objective: This study aimed to describe the perspectives of early childhood development (ECD) practitioners in low-resourced settings on the linguistic and contextual appropriateness of an adapted milestone guide for use in group settings with children between the ages of birth and 3 years 11 months and to gather their recommended classroom activities to support development. Design: A mixed method, cross sectional exploratory survey design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative responses. Study sample: Fifteen ECD practitioners from three centres in low-resourced settings of Pretoria participated in the study. Results: Participants reported the milestone as linguistically and contextually appropriate, with minor changes. Suggested activities included both activities requiring equipment and those not requiring equipment. Conclusions: The newly adapted developmental milestone guide was found to be linguistically and contextually appropriate to monitor and stimulate milestones. It is, therefore, ready to be trialled in multiple low-resourced group settings.
Exploring the relationship between reduced sound tolerance, sensory processing disorder, and auditory processing disorder in children : a scoping review
Mapholi, Andanani; Snyman, Anneke; Prinsloo, Bianca; Wazara, Idaishe (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Introduction: Reduced sound tolerance, sensory processing disorder (SPD), and auditory processing disorder (APD) can have significant adverse effects, particularly on communication in children. As a result, investigating the relationship between reduced sound tolerance and SPD, with a focus on APD, may lead to important discoveries that could contribute to the development of targeted intervention strategies. Objective: The main purpose of this scoping review was to comprehensively explore the existing literature to allow for the determination of the relationship between these conditions, and identifying gaps in research. Study design: A scoping review was used to conduct this study. A data extraction form was utilized to acquire information from articles that met the inclusion criteria set by the authors. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) were applied during a structured search for articles in five different electronic databases with information on reduced sound tolerance and sensory processing disorder in children. Keywords comprised of "Auditory Processing Disorder", "Sensory Processing Disorder", "reduced sound tolerance", "hyperacusis" and "children". The electronic databases were searched for relevant articles published from the 20th of June to the 25th of August. The opinion of two experienced researchers was used throughout the data collection process. All authors received identical library training to reduce discrepancies in data extraction. All four authors extracted the data and two researchers assessed the relevance and applicability of the data that was obtained. The data was analysed and key characteristics from each study were highlighted using a narrative synthesis approach. Results: Seven articles were included in the review. All the studies provided information regarding reduced sound tolerance in children with APD or SPD. The studies highlighted a relationship between reduced sound tolerance and APD in children. APD and hyperacusis were seen to co-occur in three out of the seven studies found, with one study reporting a 70.9% prevalence of hyperacusis in children with APD. Another study indicated that speech in noise training might improve auditory processing and sound tolerance in children with SPD. Conclusion: A notable overlap between reduced sound tolerance and SPD has been highlighted in the findings. This scoping review brought relevant information to light but also emphasized the gaps in the literature and the need for a more comprehensive analysis of the relationship between reduced sound tolerance and SPD, specifically focusing on APD.
Factors influencing hearing aid selection : a qualitative user perspective
Bosse, Charlize; Joseph, Kiara; Visser, Susan-Jane; Croucamp, Anné; Schnepel, Anke; Mathebula, Tintswalo (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Purpose: This study explored key factors that influence adult hearing aid users’ choice of hearing aids. Method: A cross-sectional, retrospective qualitative research design was employed using content analysis of semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited from the HearingTracker and Lexie Hearing user database. Results: A total of 40 participants with an average age of 65 (14.6 SD) years were included. The majority were bilateral, behind-the-ear (82.5%) hearing aid users that obtained their device from a hearing health care professional (90%). Four categories with 13 sub-categories were identified that influenced hearing aid selection which included i) Device Characteristics ii) External Factors, iii) Device form-factor and iv) Sound quality. The most prominent category was device characteristics which included the following sub-categories: cost, bluetooth-connectivity, self-adjustment, general features, and rechargeability. External factors (n=24) included audiologist recommendations, online informational resources, and the lifestyle of the patient with device form-factor was linked to physical attributes of the hearing aid and included cosmetics, comfort and style (n=12) of the device. Sound quality (n=11) included natural sound perception and music appreciation. Conclusion: Key considerations such as the device characteristics, external factors, device form-factor and sound quality of the device influenced the selection of a hearing device. Our findings emphasize the need for convenient, technologically advanced features and suggest future research should focus on the role of online resources and emerging technologies. Collaboration between hearing healthcare professionals and manufacturers to address individualized needs will improve the selection process and boost future satisfaction.
Test-retest reliability of vestibular evoked myogenic potentials with a B81 bone conductor
Boyens, Kaylee; Coetzee, Marli; Saban, Aakifah; Victor, Anome (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Objective: To determine the test-retest reliability of cervical and ocular vestibular myogenic potentials (VEMPs) evoked by a 500 Hz narrowband (NB) CE-Chirp conducted through a B81 Bone Conductor. Design: This study employed a quantitative, exploratory research design. A within-participant, within-session, and between-session reliability analysis was conducted. Twenty participants (10 female, 10 male) were recruited using convenience and snowball sampling methods, with screening processes ensuring normal middle ear, hearing, and vestibular function. Data collection involved repeated testing sessions, with statistical analyses applied to assess the reliability of the recorded VEMP responses. The latency, amplitude and asymmetry of the VEMPs elicited at 55 dB nHL bone conduction (BC) CE-Chirp. Study Sample: The study population consisted of participants aged 18 to 60, with normal middle ear, hearing, and vestibular system functioning were recruited from the researchers' network of family and friends. Results: The Shapiro-Wilk test confirmed the use of non-parametric statistics. No significant differences were observed in P1 latency, N1 latency, or P1-N1 amplitude between ears or genders for both cVEMP and oVEMP parameters, allowing data to be pooled. The Friedman test revealed significant differences across variables (p<0.001) particularly between Test 1 and Test 3, with the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test identifying significant differences (p<0.05) in P1-N1 amplitude, asymmetry ratio, and P1/N1 latencies. Spearman’s correlation coefficients showed moderate within-session reliability but very poor between-session reliability for both cVEMP and oVEMP parameters. Conclusions: The B81 bone conducted CE-Chirp c- and oVEMPs proved to be reliable in within- and between-session testing regarding P1-N1 amplitudes and asymmetry ratio.
Caregivers’ perspectives of a linguistically and contextually adapted early childhood developmental milestone guide for children (birth to 3 years 11 months)
Bahadoor, Zeneera; Masekela, Mbali M.N.; Masule, Kabuba Hendrietta; Molongoana, Palesa N. (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Objective: This study aimed to determine the perspectives of caregivers of young children (birth to 3 years 11 months) regarding an international developmental milestone guide, recently contextually and linguistically adapted for South African families from low-resourced contexts. Method: A mixed method research design with both qualitative and quantitative aspects were employed. A semi-structured interview was conducted using an interview schedule which had open-ended questions in order to gain insight on the perspectives of caregivers and closed-ended questions. A pilot study with three participants was conducted to refine the interview schedule prior to data collection. The perceptions of 18 caregivers of children aged between birth to 3 years 11 months were analysed using thematic analysis. Quantitative aspects were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of the themes derived from the caregivers’ feedback demonstrated that the adapted developmental milestone guide was helpful and supportive of developmental literacy. Based on participant feedback, 7 of the 46 items in the adapted developmental milestone guide were further amended, and an additional domain on feeding skills was added. Four themes were identified from the participants’ responses to the guide, including accessibility, linguistic complexity and diversity, developmental literacy, and contextual relevance. All the participants indicated that they want access to the guide. Conclusion: The recently adapted developmental milestone guide for the South African context was reported to be relevant and to promote developmental literacy among caregivers of very young children. Further adjustments will be made based on the caregivers' perspectives to the linguistic complexity in order to make the adapted developmental milestone guide more comprehensible.
Specialised medical professionals’ perspectives on oral feeding of infants and young children receiving high flow oxygen
De Aguiar, Tatiana; Lange, Gabriela; Lilje, Claudia; Stevens, Shanae (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Background: Current research on the safety of oral feeding in infants and young children receiving high-flow oxygen therapy is limited, with differing views on decision-making in these cases. Aim: The aim was to explore perspectives of specialised medical professionals in South Africa regarding oral feeding practices of young children receiving high-flow oxygen therapy. Method: A 40-item electronic survey was completed by 37 South African specialised medical professionals. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. Data were analysed descriptively. Results: The findings revealed varied perspectives on oral feeding practices for infants and young children on nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) and high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy, with greater caution towards nCPAP due to higher perceived aspiration risks. Participants indicated a lack of guidelines (n=32; 97.0%) to follow regarding feeding practices with this population, with varied perspectives on oral feeding when on high-flow oxygen. Decisions are often made individually (n=15; 44.1%), but rarely made by a team. A cautious feeding approach monitoring clinical signs of aspiration was often (n=25; 78.1%) recommended with limited informal (n=13; 38.2%) and instrumental (n=12; 35.0%) assessment available and inconsistent SLT collaboration (n=9; 24.3%) despite access to SLT services (n=34; 79.4%). Conclusion: The study underscores varied approaches to oral feeding in infants and young children on high flow oxygen therapy among South African specialised medical professionals. The lack of research and established guidelines, and inconsistent use of formal measures to assess feeding, and limited multidisciplinary decisions are highlighted.
The importance of the audiologist during the hearing aid journey
Hajat, Aaliah; Ebrahim, Farzeen; Kaka, Zainub; Noor, Kulsoom; Mbatha, Faith (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Objective: This study aimed to understand hearing aid user perspectives on the importance of the audiologist in the hearing aid journey and their perceived ability to fit and adjust to over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Design: A qualitative analysis design was utilised with secondary data from an existing data set of responses from semi-structured interviews. Study sample: Adults who were unilateral or bilateral hearing aid users from the United States were recruited through the Hearing Tracker and Lexie Hearing databases. Forty-one participants with an average age of 69 years (SD = 11.72) participated in the virtual interviews. Results: The analysis revealed that the majority of participants considered an audiologist as important (n= 30), citing support, customisation, and information counselling as critical elements in their hearing aid journey. A minority viewed audiologists as less important (n= 8), due to negative experiences such as impersonal care or preferring self-reliance. In terms of OTC hearing aids, opinions were divided, with some participants open to self-fitting, appreciating the costeffectiveness (n= 15), while others expressed concerns about their inadequacy (n= 25), especially in cases of severe hearing loss and a lack of confidence in self-fitting. Conclusion: The study underscores the significant role audiologists play in the hearing aid journey and while OTC hearing aids offer a feasible alternative for some users, concerns regarding their effectiveness and the lack of professional guidance were highlighted. Integrating OTC devices with the expertise and support of audiologists, may offer a feasible solution which could lead to improved outcomes.
Experiences and Practices of South African Speech-Language Therapists Related to Literacy
Tayob, Aamina Bibi Ebrahim; Mlauzi, Nicole; Elsenbroek, Lennie (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Background: Literacy development is a critical aspect of language acquisition, with speech-language therapists (SLTs) playing a pivotal role in supporting literacy skills. In South Africa, the unique linguistic and cultural landscape presents specific challenges and opportunities for SLTs in addressing literacy difficulties. Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences and practices of South African Speech-Language Therapists (SASLTs) related to literacy. Method: Using a cross-sectional survey design, both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 31 SASLTs through an online questionnaire. Results: The results showed that 90% of SASLTs currently work with literacy difficulties, primarily focusing on phonological awareness and phonics. However, less attention is given to emergent literacy skills such as print conventions and writing. Many participants indicated a need for additional training and continuing education to address broader literacy development, including the connection between spoken and written language. The study also identified challenges such as inadequate undergraduate training, limited access to culturally relevant resources, and difficulties in multidisciplinary collaboration. SASLTs expressed a strong interest in professional development, especially in evidence-based literacy intervention. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for expanded literacy-focused training and resources, interdisciplinary collaboration, and culturally appropriate tools to improve literacy outcomes in South Africa. These implications are significant for enhancing SLT education and clinical practice, promoting a more comprehensive approach to literacy intervention that integrates both foundational and emergent literacy skills.
The speech-language therapist’s role with neonates who have hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy
De Gouveia, Amy; Hindson, Verity; Viljoen, Amanda; Wilke, Kyra (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
Background This survey study aimed to describe the role of a sample of speech-language therapists (SLTs) working with neonates with hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) in neonatal nurseries in South Africa. Research will allow for better understanding of SLTs’ role, and effective and timely treatment of this population. Method A 21-item previously published online survey was completed by 22 South African SLTs rendering mostly quantitative data. Purposive sampling and snowball sampling were used to recruit participants for the study. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were used. Results An average of five babies with HIE were admitted to NICUs where participants were working. Whole body cooling was used more often than selective head cooling, with no SLTs reporting involvement during cooling. Reported management of feeding difficulties included direct infant treatment to promote oral feeding skills, and caregiver support for optimal breastfeeding and developmentally appropriate stimulation. Most participants (n=21; 95.5%) provide follow-up services to clients with HIE, largely concerning feeding monitoring. Formal and informal feeding assessment methods were used by participants, with most (n=13; 59.1%) participants using the Neonatal Feeding Assessment Scale. Management is carefully tailored to the infants’ and families’ needs. Treatment was influenced by resources available, within the context of sparse management guidelines. Conclusion The findings reveal the need for standardised protocols to guide management of this population in the NICU. Additionally, SLTs must strive for holistic management of neonates with HIE as early intervention pre- and post-discharge plays a vital role in mitigating adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Results may inform the development of guidelines and may be beneficial for SLTs in low- and middle-income countries involved in the NICU.
Early childhood development practitioners’ perspectives on an adapted developmental resource (3y0m - 5y11m) for language development in low resourced settings in South Africa
Du Plessis, Danielle; Wagner, Julia; Köstlin, Tabea; Du Toit, Linette (University of Pretoria, 2024)
Background Globally, there are 250 million children at risk of not reaching their developmental potential later in life. In South Africa, where poverty levels are high and various risk factors are prevalent, children face an increased risk of developmental delays. ECD practitioners often play the role of a primary caregiver to many children due to the amount of time children spend in ECD centres. As a result, ECD practitioners are ideally positioned to provide developmental stimulation to children, to ameliorate many of these risks. To achieve successful developmental outcomes, access to appropriate resources, such as existing milestone guides, is crucial. However, these resources are often lacking in low-income settings, making it difficult to reach these goals. Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe Early Childhood Development practitioners’ perspectives on the language activities included in a contextually and linguistically adapted milestone guide for preschool children aged 3 years 0 months to 5 years 11 months from low-resourced settings. Method The study used a short-longitudinal design with a paper-based pre-survey and semi-structured post-implementation interview. These incorporated both quantitative and qualitative questions. A three-week implementation period of the language domain of the adapted milestone guide occurred between the survey and interview. Throughout the implementation phase, field notes were made by the participants and phone calls were made weekly by the research team to gain feedback. Non-probability purposive sampling targeted ECD practitioners from low- and middle-income countries. feedback. Non-probability purposive sampling targeted ECD practitioners from low- and middle-income countries. Results and discussion Participants reported that it was easy to implement the activities into daily routines and that they were unchallenging to understand. The adapted milestone guide was deemed both age and developmentally appropriate and proved to be suitable for the group setting in a low-resourced community. Participants also reported positive children’s experiences with the activities. Finally, recommendations were provided, to improve the suggested resources and increase parental involvement as well as the importance of practitioners’ roles to promote early childhood development. Conclusion The adapted milestone guide proved to be user-friendly and suitable for integration into the daily routines of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre, with materials readily accessible. The children indicated enjoyment of the activities, supporting continued successful implementation of the milestone guide in other ECD centres.
An investigation into etiological and background factors in the subtypes of Specific Learning Disorder (Developmental Dyslexia)
Shaw, Cassidy; Olivier, Eileen; Van der Spuy, Kallyn; Valkenburg, Dandelion; Turner, Isabel (University of Pretoria, 2024-10)
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