European Clinical Specialization in Fluency Disorders (ECSF): Participants Review the First Four Years

Abstract

Background: The European Clinical Specialization in Fluency Disorders (ECSF) is a 1-year postgraduate course for speech and language therapists (known as speech-language pathologists in the United States). The program was developed by a consortium whose members are specialists in fluency disorders from European universities/colleges. The consortium expanded to include other EU college members and specialists from EU centers of clinical excellence. Purpose: This paper presents an evaluative review by students and teachers who have participated in the initial 4 years of ECSF courses. Methodology: Two mixed methods online survey questionnaire were used, one for each group (student course participants and consortium members, designated as teachers throughout the paper) with quantitative, comparative data gathering, along with elements of qualitative data emerging from invited comments, and from open-ended questions. Results: High and relatively high levels of satisfaction were expressed by all participants regarding the overall experience of ECSF. There was a wider range of satisfaction expressed by student participants regarding aspects of course content and experience of clinical work. Participants' responses providing qualitative data indicate major influences of the ECSF on professional development, and strong appreciation of participation in ECSF.