Efficacy of a Speech-Language Development and Disorders Awareness Lecture among Pre-Primary School Teachers in Lucknow

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to measure the efficacy of an awareness lecture on speech and language development and disorders among pre-primary school teachers of Lucknow. Method: The study was carried out in 2 phases. In Phase I the questionnaire on the speech and language development and disorders and a lecture on speech and language development and disorders were prepared. The questionnaire contained questions on the components of speech and language, and on the importance of language for literacy and academic success. The lecture contained information on the components of speech, language and communication; the development of speech and language and its disorders; and the relationship between speech and language skills and academic success. In Phase II, the questionnaire was administered on 30 pre-primary school teachers before conducting and after conducting the awareness lecture on speech and language development and disorders in children. Results: The results demonstrated significant improvement in the mean scores on awareness of speech, language development and disorders post-lecture showing that the study was successful in creating awareness of speech and language development and disorders among the pre-primary school teachers of Lucknow. Conclusion: Creating awareness on speech, language development and disorders among teachers will facilitate early identification and timely intervention of children with communication disorders. Policies that promote orientation and training of positive strategies for speech, language and communication among ASHA workers and Aganwadi teachers will go a long way in early identification and intervention in India. Key words: Awareness, Efficacy, Teachers, Communication Disorder, Development.