Provider Confidence in LSL Strategies With the d/Deaf+ Population

Although existing literature demonstrates the efficacy of cochlear implants for the d/Deaf+ (DHH+) population as well as use of listening & spoken language (LSL) strategies, there is a degree of provider discomfort working with the population. This study investigates confidence in the use of LSL strategies by providers working with children who are DHH+ and investigates levels of provider confidence applying LSL skills/knowledge with this same population. Despite responses from highly qualified and experienced providers, results indicate evidence that disparities in strategy utilization and provider confidence exist with the DHH+ population. Although providers report benefits and utilization of strategies there is a paucity of available research in applying LSL strategies with children who are DHH+. To better support providers, there is a need to operationally define the DHH+ population including how additional diagnoses impact language learning as well as understand how skills are categorized by developmental levels of language acquisition.