Assessing clinical reasoning: which model for speech therapy?

Abstract

Clinical reasoning is central to the professional practice of speech-language pathologists. It is, however, a very complex and multi-faceted construct. In health sciences in general, and speech-language pathology in particular, the construct of clinical reasoning is quite tricky to assess. Accordingly, one of the strategy's goals is to develop a conceptual model that reflects prevailing research directions for optimum assessment within speech-language pathology. A good literature review, thematically organized using Zotero and Nvivo software, allows the development of an assessment model for clinical reasoning competency in speech-language pathology. This model uses case-based clinical reasoning approaches within the classroom setting. In simulated settings, it uses structured OSCE procedures. During placements, written case notes are used alongside oral case presentations. Although limited, this study provides the foundation for further studies with empirical exploration and validation of this assessment model within the speech-language pathology area and other related health fields.

Keywords

• speech-language pathology, clinical reasoning assessment, case-based learning, simulation-based assessment, clinical placement