The use of language to communicate is a uniquely human capability. Language is part of our cultural identities and can be expressed through many modalities such as speech, sign and writing. Disorders of communication have profound effects on an individual's ability to function and impact family, friends, learning and professional choices. It has been said that "life without communication is scarcely better than death." This course provides an overview of human communication disorders across the life span. The course includes information about the various types of communication disorders and how they are diagnosed and treated.

Normal hearing process and pathologies of the auditory system. Hearing screening, pure-tone testing, and speech audiometry.

Application of the International Phonetic Alphabet to normal and clinical populations; use of broad and narrow transcriptions. Basic speech science, acoustic phonetics, and acoustic analysis of speech production.

Introduction to the profession of speech-language pathology; review of issues related to scope of practice; professional ethics, certification/licensure, and current challenges facing the profession. Discussion of employment opportunities for speech-language pathologists.