NCHAM and A.T. Still University Announce Infant Assessment and Amplification Workshop

A.T. Still University and the National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM) announce an exciting opportunity for clinicians to enhance their knowledge and skills in the assessment of hearing loss in infants and toddlers, and strategies to ensure appropriate amplification and intervention. This training combines on-line preparation with a four day session emphasizing clinical procedures and hands-on practicum.

Entitled "Diagnostics and Amplification for Infants and Toddlers", this workshop offers a total of 40 hours (4 CEUs) of continuing education credit in an innovative three-part format. The first part involves weekly readings and case studies to increase theoretical and clinical knowledge, to be discussed in weekly chat sessions with other participants and course mentors. Four days of onsite clinically-based presentations by Dr. James Hall, Mr. Shane Moodie, Dr. Rebekah Cunningham, Dr. Randi Winston, Dr. Karen Ditty, and others encompass the second phase of the workshop, to be held at the university from August 5 - August 8, 2008. Hands-on experience with clinical equipment used for diagnostics and amplification selection for infants will also be provided. The third part of the workshop consists of a local practicum element to meet each participant's individual needs. Each participant will be asked to complete diagnostic evaluations for three infants using the protocols presented in the course, and to submit a written report for each. Practicum mentors will work with participants to arrange practicum experiences, and will read each report and provide helpful feedback.

This comprehensive workshop covers topics from assessment of hearing loss in infants and toddlers through intervention and counseling. Topics to be covered include: anatomy and physiology of the infant auditory system;electrophysiological results in pediatric clients;otoacoustic emissions in pediatric clients;click and frequency-specific ABR measures;bone conduction measures;use of sedation;behavioral assessment;cochlear implants;assisting parents with decision making;evaluation and application of DSL;RECD;use of ABR data with DSL;validation of hearing instrumentation;selecting amplification;report writing;communication options;early intervention;data management and tracking;working within the EHDI system.

Enrollment is limited to 45 participants, so early registration is encouraged. Registration deadline is June 15, 2008.

Registration information and a detailed program itinerary can be found at www.infanthearing.org, or by contacting Dr. Les Schmeltz at 480-219-6121 or via email at lschmeltz@atsu.edu.