Texas Woman s University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders CYCLE 7 TWU-TETN Information Meeting Documents

Transcription

1 CYCLE 7 TWU-TETN Information Meeting Documents The information contained in this packet is intended to be used in conjunction with the verbal presentation offered at the information meetings.

2 Texas Woman s University SLP Master s Program / Texas Education Telecommunication Network (TETN) Cycle 7 Information Meeting Agenda 1. Overview of TETN and Cycle 7 2. Prerequisite Program (Leveling) 3. Admission/Retention & Additional Requirements 4. Timelines 5. Technical Requirements 6. GRE 7. Practicum 8. Licensure 9. ASHA 10. Approximate Semester Dates 11. Proposed Schedule of Classes 12. Educational Sponsorship Example 13. Estimated Costs 14. Student Code of Ethics 15. Agreement to Work in Schools 16. Stakeholder Responsibilities 17. Certification of Attendance & Acceptance of Terms 18. Application and Admission Process 19. Questions 2

3 1. Overview of the TWU-TETN Learning Venue and Cycle 7 Cycle 7 of the TWU Speech-Language Pathology Master s Program TETN Venue (TETN for short) represents a continuation of the collaborative efforts between four entities, (the Texas Education Agency (TEA), Texas Education Service Centers (ESCs), Texas Woman s University (TWU), and the Texas Education Telecommunication Network (TETN where we get our shorthand name), to ameliorate the shortage of Speech-Language Pathologists in the schools of Texas. TETN has evolved from teachers traveling to a couple of Education Service Centers to the current transmission of courses through interactive videoconferencing across numerous ESCs and computer-assisted instruction delivered into the students homes. Cycle 7 includes preparation for a master s degree in speech-language pathology through courses offered via interactive technology and through hands-on clinical experiences provided through sponsoring school districts and medical facilities across the State of Texas. The master s program is offered in accordance with the guidelines and requirements of the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association. Participating Education Service Centers (ESCs) assist students by providing classroom sites, classroom coordinators, and state coordination of the program. TETN is designed to allow students to work in the schools as a licensed assistant while they complete the requirements for the master's degree. Each student must secure sponsorship from an educational entity (i.e., school district) and maintain it throughout the master s program. Students must attend classes in a participating ESC. TETN Cycle 7 is supported in part by a grant from the Texas Education Agency and was created to provide training opportunities for candidates who wish to practice speech-language pathology in the schools of Texas. Successful completion of this program prepares students to apply for Texas licensure and ASHA certification, which credential the graduate to practice in any SLP setting. However, because it is the expressed purpose of this program to decrease the shortage of SLPs in Texas schools, candidates who do not wish to work in Texas schools are not eligible for admission. The application process for TETN Cycle 7 will begin September 1, 2012, and the deadline for submission is December 15, Coursework begins in the summer of 2013 (spring 2013 for some out-of-field students); anticipated completion (graduation) is August of

4 2. Prerequisite Program (Leveling) Students who hold a bachelor s degree in a field that is NOT in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology, or the equivalent must complete prerequisite courses before beginning graduate work in Speech-Language Pathology at Texas Woman s University. Prerequisites may be obtained at TWU or any ASHA accredited university speech pathology program that offers equivalent content. TWU offers these prerequisites to selected candidates via the SLP Prerequisite Program. Individuals interested in taking courses through the SLP Prerequisite Program must apply to both TWU and the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, and be accepted by both, before taking any prerequisite courses at TWU. Prerequisite Program courses begin each summer and are offered online, with final examinations taken in person at the ESCs. The application deadline is March 1 to begin the Prerequisite Program that summer. TWU Prerequisite Program Courses SUMMER Audiology Anatomy and Physiology for Speech and Language FALL Phonetics, Phonology, and Transcription Normal Speech and Language Development in Preschool Children Normal Language Development in School-Aged Children SPRING Speech Disorders and Intervention Language Disorders and Intervention NOTE: The Prerequisite Program is NOT a licensed assistant preparation program. Completion of the Prerequisite Program does NOT fulfill the requirements for an "Assistant in Speech- Language Pathology" license from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Questions regarding the assistant s license should be directed to the Texas State Board of Health. Students who complete prerequisite courses at another university may have slightly different coursework. Other university prerequisites may be approved as prerequisites for TWU graduate work by submitting the degree plan or transcript to Dr. June Levitt at jlevitt@twu.edu. Completion of the TWU SLP Prerequisite Program does NOT guarantee acceptance into the TWU Speech-Language Pathology master s degree program. Information about the SLP Prerequisite Program and procedures for application can be found at: 4

5 APPLICATION for the PREREQUISITE PROGRAM 1. Complete the online University application at (Apply as a transfer undergraduate student in Communication Sciences; you will be applying for Summer 2012.) A $50 fee will be assessed. 2. Send official transcripts from EVERY college/university attended to: TWU-Student Records P.O. Box Denton, Texas * Candidates must have an undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale) or in their last 60 hours of coursework in order to apply, and they must complete their bachelor s degree prior to beginning prerequisite classes. (The award of a bachelor s degree must appear on the transcript.) 3. Have two university professors, employers, or co-workers complete and sign the recommendation form found on the webpage and return them to you in a sealed envelope with their signature across the seal. 4. Write a one-page letter of intent discussing your career goals and reasons for entering your chosen profession. In no case should the letter exceed 2 pages. 5. Complete and sign the SLP Prerequisite Program application form that is on the TWU-COMS website. 6. Mail the SLP Prerequisite Program application, the two signed and sealed recommendation letters, the letter of intent and a second complete set of official transcripts to: Prerequisite Coordinator Dept. of Communication Sciences and Disorders P.O. Box Denton, Texas THIS MUST BE POSTMARKED BY MARCH You will receive a letter from the TWU Office of Admissions indicating whether you have been accepted to the university as a post-baccalaureate student. This does not constitute admission to the SLP Prerequisite Program. 8. You will receive a letter from the indicating whether you have been admitted to the SLP Prerequisite Program. 5

6 9. If you are admitted to the Prerequisite Program, you will receive an (approximately one week prior to registration) giving you the course numbers, registration codes, and instructions for registering. Courses in the Prerequisite Program begin each summer. The Prerequisite Program includes 21 semester credit hours (7 courses) offered sequentially in the summer, fall and spring. Courses are offered only once in each yearly program and must be taken in the designated order. Students may elect the alternate slower track which offers the courses over a two-year period. If the alternate track is elected, courses must be taken sequentially over the six-semester period. However, selecting the slower track will not ensure that the student has completed the courses in time to participate in Cycle 7. Students accepted into the Prerequisite Program must maintain an A or a B in all prerequisite courses in order to be allowed to continue. Students earning a grade of C or lower in a prerequisite course may retake the course only one time and must earn a grade of A or B before enrolling in any further prerequisite courses. A student who earns a second C (or lower) in the same course or a subsequent course will not be allowed to continue in the Prerequisite Program. Admission to, and successful completion of, the SLP Prerequisite Program does not guarantee acceptance into the master s degree program. 6

7 3. Admission, Retention and Additional Requirements TETN Cycle 7 - ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Bachelor s degree (completed by the start of graduate coursework). Completion of prerequisites including leveling courses if needed (completed by the start of graduate coursework). Submission of official transcripts from all previously attended universities. Submission of the official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score. Submission of grade point average for undergraduate coursework, graduate coursework, and the last 60 hours of coursework. (Students with a GPA below 2.5 will not be accepted by the Graduate School of the University. A GPA of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale) is required for acceptance into the Department.) Three letters of recommendation to TWU (Recommendations from current/former employer, supervisor, or university professor preferred) Written essay describing career goals. Selection by the TWU COMS Admissions Committee. Sponsorship agreement from an independent school district, special education cooperative or other approved educational entity serving children ages 3 to 21. This signed agreement will be required AFTER the TWU admission process is complete and BEFORE you register for classes. TETN Cycle 7-REQUIREMENTS FOR RETENTION IN PROGRAM Students must make a grade of A or B in leveling courses (if leveling courses are required) between the time the students are accepted and the time they begin graduate coursework. Students receiving a C in one graduate course must retake the course in order to successfully complete the master s program. Students must not receive more than one C (or lower) in graduate coursework. Students receiving two C grades or lower (in the same or different courses) will be dismissed from the program. Students who do not demonstrate appropriate technical/interpersonal skills as well as appropriate professional abilities will be dismissed from program. Students not attending classes and practicum on a regular basis will be dismissed from the program. (More than one unexcused absence or two tardies per class/practicum may place your retention at risk.) Check with each Instructor regarding individual attendance policies. Students engaging in Academic Dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism, etc.) will be subject to TWU s disciplinary policy for academic dishonesty. See TWU webpage for definitions. 7

8 Students failing to abide by the ethical standards of the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association will be dismissed from the program. Students who fail to maintain sponsorship from an educational entity throughout the entire master s program will be dismissed from the program. Students desiring to change sponsors during the program must obtain the approval of the TWU-TETN Director prior to leaving the original sponsor. This decision will be made after TWU has met with the proposed new sponsor. ADDITIONAL ASHA REQUIREMENTS Students must have completed at least one college course in biological sciences, a course in social/behavioral sciences, a course in physical sciences, and a course in math prior to applying for their CCC from ASHA. These background requirements are dictated by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and may be subject to change. If you do not have these requirements on your transcript, you may satisfy this requirement at your local university or community college or you may find them offered online. They are NOT offered as part of Cycle 7. Examples Biological Sciences (MUST have BIO prefix) Human Anatomy & Physiology Neuroanatomy Neurophysiology Genetics Biology Math (NOT Remedial Math) Algebra Geometry Calculus Statistics (if offered with a math dept prefix) Trigonometry Matrix Methods Social/Behavioral Sciences Sociology Anthropology Social Psychology Psychology of Learning Psychology Physical Sciences Physics Geology Chemistry Astronomy Biochemistry Earth Science 8

9 4. Projected Timelines DATE TASK November 3, 2011 Information Meeting 1 March 1, 2012 Application for TWU Prerequisite Program Due February 8, 2012 Information Meeting 2 May 8, 2012 Information Meeting 3 Summer, May, 2013 September 1, 2012 December 15, 2012 February/March, 2013 March, 2013 Spring/Summer, 2013 SUMMER 2013 May 26 May 31, 2013 June-July, 2013 August 1, 2013 August, 2013 TWU Prerequisite Program courses On-line graduate application and recommendation forms available Final Postmark Deadline for all application materials for the Office of Student Records AND the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders Acceptance letters mailed Meeting with all sponsoring districts Signed sponsorship agreements due Spring 3 and/or Summer semester observation and practicum for accepted students not holding their assistant s license MASTER S PROGRAM BEGINS CAMPUS KICK-OFF WEEK TENTATIVE DATES Candidates attend class on TWU campus Continue courses via WIMBA, ESC, and internet Final exams at the ESCs Deadline for application for assistant s license Supervisor training 9

10 Fall, 2013 Spr, Sum, Fall 2013 Spring, Sum, 2014 August, 2015 Graduate courses continue Tuesdays & Thursdays Tuesdays at ESC; Thursdays via WIMBA Practicum begins Graduate courses continue Graduate courses continue Master s Program Complete! 10

11 5. Technical Requirements Participation in the Cycle 7 TETN Learning Venue requires that you acquire and maintain appropriate computers and other technical equipment. The equipment requirements listed below are subject to change and will be updated as needed. In addition to your computer, you should have: High speed internet Internet Explorer 8 or Mozilla Firefox as your browser (IE 8 is the Blackboard recommended browser) A current anti-virus program (Norton, McAfee, Symantec, etc.) Headphones and a microphone (suggested brand is Logitech) Web cam (suggested brand is Logitech) Sound card and speakers Adobe Acrobat Reader Microsoft Word (not Works, etc) Microsoft Power Point International Phonetic Alphabet fonts (downloads available on the web) Backup everything on your hard drive. There are some external hard drives available for reasonable prices. You should back up your drive frequently and keep copies of everything you send. Once you have been admitted and enrolled, USE YOUR TWU ACCOUNT for all correspondence between you and your professors (to send or receive e mail from the University). Do not forward your mail to any other account, as we cannot guarantee it will get to us. Use your username@twu.edu for all correspondence. Do not depend on using the computer you may have in your public school site. School systems have firewalls that limit access to and Blackboard. You may not receive s through your TWU account if you use a public school computer. Depending on upgrades to the course delivery system, you may be asked to purchase some extra accessories. This is not expected, but may happen. 11

12 6. Graduate Records Examination (GRE) Must I take the GRE? Yes. The test you must take is the General Test, which measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills. You do not have to take any subject area tests. The general test is offered as a computer-based test. There is no minimum score that you must achieve. The higher the score, the more competitive your application will be. What if I took the GRE several years ago? You must submit the official results of your GRE to the graduate school. The Educational Testing Service may have GRE scores from the last 5 years and may be able to send that. If you have an original copy of the results that were sent to you, you may submit that even if it is more than 5 years old. If you applied to another graduate school, and they have a record of your previous score on your official transcript, they can submit it to us. If you do not have one of these two types of verification, you must take the GRE again. Please take the GRE in time to have your scores reported by the December 15 application deadline. Where can I get more information about the GRE? 12

13 1. What is practicum? 7. Practicum Direct client contact time conducting therapy and evaluations Supervised by ASHA certified SLP Schedules (about 6 hours per week) are submitted to and approved by TWU Clinical faculty Lesson plans are required for each client Documentation of progress is required for each client Application from academic coursework is required 2. Requirements for Students Must complete a minimum of 400 hours of supervised clinical experience 25 of the 400 hours are clinical observation Remaining 375 hours are spent conducting therapy and diagnostics with clients At least 325 of the 400 hours must be completed while in graduate school (50 can be carried over from undergraduate practicum) Must be supervised by individuals who hold current certification: Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA and must hold current Texas license School based supervisors must attend a full-day training provided by TWU prior to supervising a graduate student and continue to attend regular follow-up trainings 3. Competency Requirements Must demonstrate competency in both treatment and assessment in the following areas: ( Big 9 ) a. Articulation b. Fluency c. Voice d. Language e. Hearing f. Swallowing g. Cognitive Aspects of Communication h. Social Aspects of Communication i. Communication Modalities 13

14 4. Six Semesters of Practicum Each student is required to participate in 6 semesters of practicum (out of field, 7 semesters). School based practicum: Four semesters of your practicum will be in the schools. This will be approximately 6 hours per week. These are the fall and spring semesters of your graduate program. Summer semesters: At least one summer semester of practicum will be spent working with adults (hospitals, rehabs, long term care facilities, etc.). These practicum experiences will be arranged by the clinical faculty. Most summer practicum experiences will be approximately 35 hours per week (5 days per week). Students cannot work during the summer semesters during practicum time (8 weeks, 7am-6pm). You must leave your summers open for practicum. The other summer practicum will be either with adults or children depending on specific competency needs (NICU, fluency camps, aug com camps, ESY, etc). A grade of C in practicum means none of the hours obtained that semester will count. Again, do not plan to work during the summer. You must be available full time for summer externship placements. 5. Summary of ASHA requirements A. General Information: 1. Supervised practicum must include experience with client/patient populations across the lifespan (Pre-K, elementary, secondary, adults) 2. Supervised practicum must include experience with client/patient populations with various: a. Severities b. Types of disorders (Big 9) c. Disabilities d. Cultural and linguistic backgrounds B. Skills Students Must Have: 1. Evaluation a. Conduct screening and prevention procedures b. Collect case history information c. Select and administer appropriate evaluation procedures d. Adapt evaluation procedures to meet client/patient needs 14

15 e. Interpret, integrate, and synthesize information to develop diagnosis and make appropriate recommendations for intervention f. Complete administrative and reporting functions g. Refer clients for appropriate services 2. Intervention a. Develop appropriate intervention plans b. Implement intervention plans c. Select or develop appropriate materials d. Measure and evaluate clients performance and progress e. Modify intervention plans to meet client needs f. Complete administrative and reporting functions g. Identify and refer clients for services as appropriate 3. Interaction and Personal Qualities a. Communicate effectively b. Collaborate with other professionals c. Provide counseling regarding communication and swallowing disorders to clients, family, caregivers and relevant others d. Adhere to ASHA code of Ethics and behave professionally 6. CF Year Once you have completed graduate school and all clinic requirements you will spend the next year (9 months if full time) in your Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY). Following successful completion of your CFY you will apply for your Clinical Certificate of Competence (CCC)!!!!!!!!!!! 15

16 8. Licensure Licensure Requirements to Become an Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology Texas Department of State Health Services State Board of Examiners for Speech Language Pathology & Audiology 1100 West 49 th Street, Austin TX Important Points: Licensure 1. TWU has nothing to do with issuing a license. You do not get a license through TWU. You get a license from the State Board of Examiners. 2. A licensed assistant position requires a bachelor s degree (it is not an aid or teacher s assistant ). 3. TWU does NOT have a licensed assistant s program. a. If you complete the prerequisites and are admitted to the TWU master s program, we will offer the rest of the coursework and practicum that you need to obtain your license. 4. Be sure to follow the link above and read the information carefully regarding the Requirements for an Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology. 16

17 9. ASHA ASHA: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association ASHA is the accrediting body for university speech-language pathology programs and for individual s Certification of Clinical Competence. TWU adheres to all standards of the association. Please visit the ASHA website at: Approximate Semester Dates * PLEASE NOTE: These dates are approximations and are NOT guarantees. Exact dates will be submitted prior to each semester. Summer: May 29 through August 1 Fall: August 29 through December 15 Spring: January 15-May 15 17

18 11. Proposed Schedule of Classes* Spring 3, 2013: Clinical Practicum (3 hours) for students needing to acquire their assistant s license. Summer 2013 Articulation and Phonological Disorders (3 hours) Language Disorders in School-Age Children (3 hours) Ethics and Clinical Settings (1 hour) Augmentative Communication (2 hours) Fall 2013 Neuronal Pathways of Communication (3 hours) Diagnostics (3 hours) Advanced Clinical Practicum Spring 2014 Seminar in Neurological Disorders (3 hours) Adult Dysphagia (3 hours) Advanced Clinical Practicum Summer 2014 Professional Communications (1 hour) Fluency (2 hours) Pediatric Dysphagia (2 hours) Advanced Clinical Practicum Fall 2014 Language Disorders in Preschool Children (2 hours) Speech Science (3 hours) Special Topics in Language Disorders (1 hour) Advanced Clinical Practicum Spring 2015 Voice Disorders (2 hours) Research in Communications (3 hours) Mentoring and Multicultural Considerations (1 hour) Advanced Clinical Practicum Summer 2015 Fundamentals of Communication Disorders (2 hours) Aural Rehabilitation and Advanced Speech Disorders (3 hours) Advanced Clinical Practicum *Official degree plan will dictate final course requirements. 18

19 12. Education Sponsorship Example* * This is a listing of the requirements that will be included in the sponsorship agreement. The official sponsorship agreement will be provided to the district sponsors of successful applicants during the official sponsorship meeting in March, We,, agree to sponsor (Name of Educational Entity) (Name of graduate student) TETN-TWU SLP Master s Program from May 26, 2013 through August 15, 2015., in the (Please initial each blank signifying understanding of that commitment and agreement. If you have any questions, please contact your ESC program coordinator, TWU program director Dr. Erika Armstrong, , or statewide coordinator Karyn Kilroy ). We understand that agreement to sponsor this graduate student includes the following commitment from us and that the student may not participate or continue to participate in this program without a sponsorship agreement in effect. We agree to: provide practicum site(s) for the TWU graduate student 6 hours per week. ensure that the graduate student s practicum placements allow him/her to acquire the practicum experiences required by ASHA. This includes experience in preschool, school-age and secondary populations and with 8 disorder types (for evaluation & treatment) as mandated by ASHA. provide an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) to supervise the graduate student for 6 hours of practicum a week (4-5 semesters). adjust the ASHA certified SLP supervisor s workload to allow time for supervision. allow practicum supervisor s release time to attend a full day initial supervisor training at the Education Service Center (ESC) or the local district via TETN connection (requires 10 day advance written request to the ESC). allow practicum supervisors release time to attend 2 two-hour mandatory supervisor trainings. coordinate payroll deduction for the ESC distance learning fee with the student, the ESC and the local district (if asked to do so by ESC). assist TWU if the student exhibits unprofessional behavior or unacceptable work in practicum duties/performance. allow student to leave district campus to be in class by 4:30 Central Time on Tuesdays and Thursdays. release the student from the district to attend a week of classes on the TWU Denton campus May 26 through May 30, provide a change in practicum supervisors the second year of practicum. affirm that this agreement remains in effect regardless of staff changes. 19

20 13. Estimated Costs Tuition rates and all fees are subject to change at any time by action of the Board of Regents or of the Texas Legislature. Tuition rates are composed of the following components: Statutory Tuition and Designated Tuition as authorized in the Texas Education Code and Board Authorized Tuition for graduate students in addition to statutory and designated tuition at a rate established by the Board of Regents as authorized in the Texas Education Code Resident (in-state) graduate students shall pay $ per semester hour. (Includes $50 statutory tuition, $118 designated tuition, and $45 board authorized tuition per semester credit hour) Nonresident (out-of-state and international) graduate students shall pay $ per semester hour. (Includes $363 statutory non-resident tuition, $118 designated tuition, and $45 board authorized tuition per semester) Spring, 2011 Tuition: Resident (in-state) graduate student tuition is $ per semester hour. Fees: range from $5.00 to $ per hour. There are also fees for add/drop, late registration, diplomas and graduation, and liability insurance. Check the webpage for full information: Semester Example for 9 hours in TETN: Tuition $ Fees $ Please anticipate annual increases. In order to help you estimate what increases will be assigned, a history of tuition increases over the past several years is listed below: 20

21 Tuition per Semester/Year Semester Hour Spring 2003 $ Summer 2003 $ Fall 2003 $ Spring 2004 $ Summer 2004 $ Spring 2005 $ Fall 2005 $ Fall 2006 $ Spring 2007 $ Fall 2007 $ Fall 2009 $ Fall 2010 $ Other Costs: Cost of books and supplies is variable, but may run $400 per semester. You must also cover the costs of your computer and technical requirements as well as internet service fee and travel to your ESC and practicum sites. (You must maintain working computer services at all times.) The cost of lodging and travel to Denton for the on-campus week and graduation will also be borne by the student. There may also be costs involved for your summer externships. Some sites require fingerprinting, background checks, immunizations, and drug screenings that you would have to obtain prior to beginning your externship. Some sites are not close to free parking so you may have that expense during the summers as well. TETN DISTANCE LEARNING STUDENT FEE The proposed distance learning fee for Cycle 7 is approximately $2, This fee will be collected monthly in a manner determined by your ESC. Students will begin payment in June 2013 ($76.92 per month for 26 months). 21

22 14. Student Code of Ethics DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION SCIENCES & DISORDERS Code of Ethics Students enrolled in classes in the are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity and ethical principles. The department subscribes to the American Speech and Hearing Association Code of Ethics (see the Clinical Procedures Manual ) and the Texas Woman's University Student Conduct Policies (outlined in the TWU Student Handbook and on the TWU webpage) and expects students to adhere to these codes and policies. Hard copies of both documents are located in the department office. Students are advised to read and understand all sections of the Code of Ethics and the Student Handbook relating to standards of conduct and academic life. Academic dishonesty, as defined by the TWU Student Handbook, "includes cheating, plagiarism, falsifying academic records, and any other acts intentionally designed to provide unfair advantage to the student or the attempt to commit such acts." Academic dishonesty may result in the immediate dismissal from the department and/or class and/or program. I have read the above referenced Code of Ethics for the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and I have read the Student Conduct Policies (on the TWU web page) and agree to abide by them. Signature of Student Date 22

23 15. Agreement to Work in the Schools (Student and TWU) I understand that acceptance (Print Name) into the TWU SLP Master s Degree Program TETN Venue is conditional upon my decision to work for a non-profit educational entity (i.e., public school, SSA, charter school) after graduation from the program. It is NOT my intent to work as a contract agent for an educational entity, nor do I plan to leave the educational setting to work in the medical arena. I fully understand that this program is supported by IDEA-B federal funds, educational entity and agency partners, and is in existence solely for the purpose of alleviating the shortage of fully certified speech-language pathologists in the school setting. Signature Date 23

24 16. Stakeholder Responsibilities Responsibilities of each of the stakeholders in this project (ESCs, Local School Districts, TWU, students, coordinators, and supervisors) are included in the document Stakeholder Responsibilities: Cycle 7. This is available upon request from the TETN secretary: Sue Colton The responsibilities pertaining to students and their supervisors are as follows. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES attend one information meeting before beginning the application process (must attend in order to be considered) satisfy all TWU entrance requirements have computer access 24hr./day, 7 days a week to the internet and consistently utilize Blackboard, WIMBA and other communication systems to maintain compliance with course requirements comply with all technical requirements (specifications to be noted prior to beginning the master s coursework) provide constructive feedback at all times and flexibility in problem-solving conduct self at all times during class as though instructor were at your site take courses when they are offered make arrangements to repeat a course, if needed (may necessitate on campus arrangements) pay tuition, fees (university and ESC distance learning), and other expenses on time; delay of payment of distance learning fee (more than one month) may result in being dropped from the program; failure to pay tuition and fees on time will result in being dropped from classes and the program arrange transportation to and from classes, practicum sites, and related meetings keep summers free for practicum (do NOT plan to work during the summer) apply and maintain assistant s license by fall of first year of courses if working as a licensed assistant arrive at class site 15 minutes prior to class time (3:15 Central time in the summer and 4:15 Central time in fall and spring) unless otherwise directed attend class, conference meetings and any additional sessions scheduled abide by the protocol for interactive PC classes at all times (no children present, no outside noise sources such as radio, no unauthorized attendees, etc.) maintain grades, level of professionalism, and skills maintain a respectful attitude and demeanor in class, online and through communications complete all class assignments by the date instructor designates or accept stipulated penalties abide by all TWU, ESC and local district requirements 24

25 provide a signed hard copy letter to TWU and your ESC if you wish to discontinue the program (until such letter is received, the monthly distance learning fee will continue to be assessed) maintain on file at TWU at ALL times a signed agreement permitting communication among the university, the ESC and the educational entity sponsor regarding your academic status, practicum, and professional responsibilities maintain sponsorship throughout the program; secure TWU approval prior to changes in sponsorship (necessitated by moving or similar situations) upon graduation, fulfill obligation to sponsoring school SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES attend one-day supervisor training before beginning student supervision abide by all ASHA and Texas State Licensure Board rules/regulations maintain Texas License and ASHA Certification submit to TWU copies of license and certification and renewals as they occur meet all TWU requirements for on-site supervision hours recognize and maintain allegiance to TWU for all graduate practicum hours logged attend all TETN supervisor training meetings scheduled during your supervisory period consult with your district to arrange for appropriately adjusted workload to facilitate graduate practicum supervision contact TWU if your district HAS NOT appropriately adjusted your work load to facilitate graduate practicum supervision provide paperwork to TWU as scheduled contact TWU AS SOON AS you begin to have concerns regarding your graduate student, if this is the case prepare and implement a remediation plan if problems arise provide feedback, instruction, conferences and support for your supervisee maintain positive attitude and flexibility in problem solving ESC RESPONSIBILITIES Serve as first point of contact for questions regarding TETN Cycle 7 Coordinate the process for recruiting students into the program Attend the prospective student information meetings Provide time for ESC program contact person and coordinator to attend coordinator meetings Provide ESC portion of funding for SLP program Serve as off-campus TETN learning environment 25

26 Provide on-going feedback to TWU and Region 10, as needed Collect student distance learning fee on a monthly basis Provide technician the entire evening the instructor teaches from your site Provide direct phone access to the TETN room Provide materials (i.e., gloves, assessment instruments, etc.) as agreed upon by TWU and ESCs Complete exit interview of student(s) leaving program and mail form to statewide coordinator at Region 10 Provide ASHA certified SLP to coordinate/facilitate the program coordinate within ESC region/area attend monthly TETN coordinator meetings communicate information shared during evening class with ESC contact/district as needed assist districts with practicum scheduling, questions, as needed attend supervisor training (1 day) one time (if requested) consult with supervisors, as needed facilitate a meeting between supervisors and instructors when instructor is in region copy and disseminate handouts, as needed order textbooks for students, if appropriate to your ESC collect homework/assignments/hour logs, etc., and forward to TWU via requested method (overnight mail, fax, snail mail) proctor (remain in room) quizzes, tests, exams and facilitate instructor assigned class activities maintain classroom behavior at all times assist in the grading of objective/short answer quizzes/tests submit grades by next day in manner requested check to make sure this has been done assist in review of observation reports notify ESC site technical site manager of technical/broadcast problems and facilitate resolution be prepared to deal with MINOR technological problems arrive at ESC by 4:15 p.m. Central time in order to secure that evening s paperwork and report in for roll call communicate information discussed before class begins to the appropriate ESC personnel, students, supervisors, and/or district personnel conference with classroom instructor (TWU) regarding student concerns and facilitate communication with district, as needed review student semester practicum hour logs as required complete and remit attendance and coordinator log form as required assist TWU in locating externship sites, if needed mentor students as needed 26

27 facilitate evening classes as addressed in coordinator training, share successful strategies statewide with coordinators to help build an even stronger program fulfill additional responsibilities as the need arises and as collaboratively determined by the appropriate program partners LOCAL DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITIES provide practicum site(s) for student provide student with the opportunity to participate in on-the-job practicum Assign student to job assignments that will allow the student to acquire practicum hours as required by ASHA. This may include allowing the student job assignment flexibility to work at different sites if practicum cases cannot be found on the graduate student s normal caseload allow student to leave district campus to attend class on time assist in identifying potential supervisors for the student s various practicum experiences provide an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist to supervise the graduate student (6 hours a week) ASHA certified SLP may be part of district staff; if so, the supervisor s previous workload must be adjusted to enable her/him to fulfill all duties required as a graduate practicum supervisor ASHA certified SLP may be a contract person ASHA certified SLP may, in some cases, be secured through negotiations with another school district provide a DIFFERENT ASHA certified speech-language pathologist to supervise the graduate student (6 hours a week) for the second year allow practicum supervisors release time to attend a one-day, initial supervisor training and pay for any expenses (travel, lodging, etc.) incurred for the training, if appropriate allow practicum supervisors release time to attend mandatory TETN meetings at their ESC (Nov. and Feb. and additionally as needed) and pay expenses (travel, lodging, etc.) incurred in attending the meetings collect distance learning fee on monthly basis from student (if asked to do so by your ESC) assist TWU if student exhibits unprofessional behavior be aware of practicum supervisor responsibilities TWU RESPONSIBILITIES facilitate information meeting among ESC staff, TWU faculty, and program candidates set admission policies and standards process graduate school applications and admit eligible students to graduate program identify, hire, and compensate sufficient faculty to teach courses and evaluate student performance 27

28 provide distance learning training opportunities (technological and instructional) for instructors provide verification with regard to use of grant funds as set forth in grant agreement develop and deliver course content secure course content expertise as agreed upon by ESCs and TWU provide adequate technological support for instructors as on-line courses are developed set and enforce course standards and grading provide syllabus for each course that sets clear expectations for the students attend monthly coordinator (supervisor) meetings (current semester instructors, director) work with ESCs and districts to select and approve appropriate practicum supervisors train practicum supervisors determine degree plan and timing of course offerings provide students with estimate of university cost for the master s program secure and coordinate externship practicum sites process paperwork for ASHA certification provide school campus site visits as appropriate provide library support 28

29 17. Certification of Attendance and Acceptance of Terms I certify that I attended the Information Meeting for the TWU Master s Degree program in Speech-Language Pathology-TETN Cycle 7 at ESC Region on, 2011/12 and that I remained for the total presentation. My initials by items below indicate that these items were discussed with me and should I apply and be accepted to the program, my initial by each indicates my willingness to accept the conditions of admittance. I further acknowledge that failure to accept these conditions will result in my not being admitted into the program. Further, I understand that failure to comply with these conditions throughout the program will result in dismissal from the program. Signature Date I agree that I must: (please initial each line) Have completed or will complete all prerequisite courses prior to beginning master s courses in the summer of 2013 with a grade of A or B. Submit no later than December 15, 2012 all information required for the completion of the application process for admission to the graduate school and COMS department of Texas Woman s University. Have an educational sponsor throughout the program. If I change sponsors/employers during the program (necessitated by moving or similar situations) I must secure TWU approval prior to changes in sponsorship. I understand that failure to maintain sponsorship will result in my being dismissed from the program. Have a computer that has access to and high speed internet and that I will maintain both of these throughout the program. Meet all the technical requirements indicated throughout the program. Consistently utilize Blackboard, WIMBA and other communication systems to maintain compliance with course requirements Comply with the protocol for interactive PC classes at all times. Keep my current address on the listserv for the TETN students. Take courses in the sequence and at the time they are offered. Have transcript credit for a physical science, biological science, behavioral/social science, and a math course. I understand that TWU is not responsible for offering these courses in this program. Not get more than one grade of C in the program. If I obtain two C grades, I understand that I will be dropped from the program. I further understand that I cannot graduate with a C in any course. If I make a C, I will need to make arrangements to repeat the course at the conclusion of the regular program. I further understand that this may mean that I will not graduate with the rest of the students in August, In addition, if I earn a grade of C in clinical practicum, none of those hours earned that semester will count toward the 400 hours required by ASHA. 29

30 Pay tuition and fees to the university at the time they are due. I further understand that the tuition and fees charged by the university may change during the program and I accept these changes. Pay the distance learning fee to the education service center in the manner determined by the ESC. Attend one week of all-day classes on the TWU campus in Denton, Texas, from May 26 through May 31, 2013 [tentative] and that I am responsible for the cost of transportation and housing for that week. Keep my day-time hours open for practicum. (This means that I cannot work between 7 am and 6 pm in the summer) Relocate during the summer(s) to obtain the required hours if adequate supervision is not available in my region to meet ASHA requirements. Complete at least 6 semesters of practicum. Arrive at the Education Service Center on the night of class by 4:15 p.m. Central Time (or 3:15 in the summer) so that time will be available to deal with advising, discussion of issues in the program, etc. Attend all classes and practicum, unless prevented by severe illness or family emergency. Absences, even though excused, may result in a lowering of the grade or dismissal from the program. Unexcused absences may result in dismissal from the program. Documentation of absences must be filed with the Office of Student Life for academic classes. Allow the university faculty to communicate with the Education Service Center staff, the sponsoring local educational agency contacts, and my supervisors regarding my performance in the program or other issues relating to my performance in the area of speech-language pathology which might need to be discussed. Abide by the ethical standard of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) at all times. Any violation of ethical standards will result in immediate dismissal from the program. Work/communicate with TWU to arrange for my practicums and complete all clinical practicum assignments given to me unless I have permission from the university clinical faculty to leave the assignment. Failure to complete clinical practicum at the assigned locations may result in dismissal from the program. Secure and maintain the assistant s license in Speech Language Pathology as set forth by the Texas Dept of Health State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language-Pathology if employed by my sponsoring district as a licensed assistant. Abide by all Texas Woman s University, Education Service Center and local educational sponsor requirements. Notify the university registrar s office at the university as well as the TETN COMS secretary of any change in name, address, phone number, or address. (Signature) (Name Please Print) (Date) 30

31 18. The Application and Admission Process There are four steps to admission: admission to TWU graduate school, selection by TWU admissions committee, participation by your ESC, and securing of sponsorship. Summary of Steps to Admission 1) Applicant attends an information meeting. 2) Applicant seeks tentative (verbal) sponsorship from an educational entity. 3) Applicant applies to TWU Graduate School. 4) Applicant applies to the COMS department. 5) Applicant meets all requirements and is considered for admission by TWU COMS admissions committee. TWU selects highest qualified applicants. 6) TWU notifies ESCs of the number of qualified applicants in their region. 7) ESCs determine if they are able to offer the program and if so, how many applicants they can take. 8) TWU selects the highest qualifying applicants for the available slots at each ESC and sends conditional acceptance letters to those students. (The letter will explain that full acceptance is dependent upon securing a letter of sponsorship from the school district.) 9) The Directors of Special Education will meet at their respective ESCs for a TETN statewide meeting in March. Each sponsor responsibility will be fully explained and questions will be answered. 10) Directors will initial and sign the sponsorship agreement. ESC Coordinators will make a copy of the signed agreements for their ESC and mail the originals to TWU COMS department. The ESC may also provide their students a copy of this agreement. 11) Sponsored qualifying applicants will be sent a letter from TWU explaining how to register for Campus Kick-Off week and classes for the summer term. You may not apply to Cycle 7 until you have attended an information meeting. Summary of the Process for Applying to TWU PLEASE DO NOT APPLY TO THE COMS Department before SEPTEMBER 1 st, The FINAL deadline for applying to Cycle 7 is December 15, You are encouraged to apply earlier to avoid any last-minute problems. 31

32 Application to TWU Graduate School: 1. You must apply to the graduate school as a degree-seeking student. This application must be completed on-line via the ApplyTexas system Submit required documents, such as your GRE and all official transcripts from EVERY college attended, in accordance with the Graduate School instructions. TWU- Student Records PO Box Denton, TX Application to the : 1. You must also apply to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. The application form may be accessed by following the link at: on September 1, 2012 or after. 2. You must complete and send to the Department of Communication Sciences your application and the following additional information: a) a letter describing your career goals b) three letters of recommendation on the forms provided on the TWU-TETN application website c) a signed Student Code of Ethics d) a signed Agreement To Work in the Schools e) a signed Certificate of Attendance and Acceptance of Terms f) official transcripts for EACH college/university attended (this is in addition to the official transcripts sent to Student Records) For ANY US Postal Service including Overnight Delivery send your departmental packet to: Sue Colton Texas Woman s University P.O. Box Denton, Texas If you are using a courier such as Fed-Ex, UPS, DHL, Lone Star for regular or overnight delivery, etc. you must use the following address: Texas Woman s University COMS Sue Colton MCL Building # Bell Avenue Denton, TX