Investigation of Learning and Employment Status in the Undergraduate Education of Speech Rehabilitation in Mainland China
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| Title: | Investigation of Learning and Employment Status in the Undergraduate Education of Speech Rehabilitation in Mainland China |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Gao Xiao, Wang Yongli, Liang Zhuoer, Dai Yuan, Zuo Jing, Wan Qin |
| Source: | International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders. 2025 60(4). |
| Availability: | Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 12 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Foreign Countries, Undergraduate Study, Undergraduate Students, Speech Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Rehabilitation, Developmental Disabilities, Communication Disorders, Delayed Speech, Aphasia, Allied Health Personnel, Employment, Hearing Therapy, Internship Programs, Clinical Experience, Medical School Faculty, Elective Courses, Student Satisfaction, Student Certification |
| Geographic Terms: | China |
| DOI: | 10.1111/1460-6984.70087 |
| ISSN: | 1368-2822 1460-6984 |
| Abstract: | Background: Speech-language pathology (SLP) in China, referred to as 'speech rehabilitation', addresses developmental and acquired communication disorders, including language delays, aphasia, and dysphagia. Despite the population exceeding 85 million individuals with communication disabilities, China faces a critical shortage of certified professionals, with fewer than 2000 practitioners nationwide. Objective: To investigate the learning and employment status of undergraduate speech rehabilitation programs in mainland China, with the aim of identifying systemic gaps and proposing actionable reforms. Methods: An online questionnaire was administered to 67 undergraduate students majoring in hearing and speech rehabilitation, with a focus on theoretical learning, practice, and employment status. Additionally, six department chairmen were surveyed to analyse the training programs, teaching staff, curriculum, and practical experiences. Results: Regarding employment, 54.3% (25/46) of the graduates had monthly incomes between 5000 and 10 000 RMB. The top three fields of employment are hearing, speech, and language rehabilitation. Clinical internships averaged 10.17 months in various settings, including hospitals and schools. In terms of learning, the average number of full-time teaching staff was 8.17, with 28.33% being associate professors and 19.17% professors. There is no uniform standard for compulsory courses, but institutions offer a range of electives. Satisfaction with learning and practice was rated at 3.88 on a 5-point Likert scale (somewhat satisfied), while employment satisfaction was lower at 3.53 (between neutral and somewhat satisfied). Conclusion: Employment in speech rehabilitation is promising but requires an independent certification system. Internship arrangements are reasonable, with high student satisfaction. Educational institutions focus on foundational knowledge and skills but need to improve research skills and faculty quality. Suggestions: (1) The link between theoretical learning and clinical practice should be strengthened by incorporating more case studies and enhancing the quality and diversity of clinical practice. (2) Establish an independent certification system for speech rehabilitation to develop discipline and motivate career advancement. (3) Improve faculty quality through better selection, training, development, and fostering an academic climate and collaboration. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1478066 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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