Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of familiarity and knowledge of superior canal dehiscence (SCD) within the curricula and clinical practices of those engaged in the profession of audiology. The quantitative methods of survey research was used to investigate Au.D. Graduate Students and Audiologists who did not specialize in vestibular disorders, regarding their knowledge and awareness of SCD. The study also investigated Au.D. programs’ academic curricula and clinical practices regarding vestibular disorders as a whole. Findings indicated that Au.D. Students were significantly more familiar and knowledgeable than were the Audiologists on many of the important aspects associated with SCD. It was also found that Au.D. Students are receiving more extensive and comprehensive information, experiences, and graduate school training regarding vestibular disorders than has been previously reported. One major implication of the study is that audiologists who do not specialize in vestibular disorders require more education regarding SCD. It is important that audiologists and students who are going into the field of audiology be properly trained to recognize important and rare vestibular disorders like SCD, so their patients can receive the needed care and treatment.

Advisor

Goldberg, Donald

Department

Communication Studies

Keywords

superior canal dehiscence (SCD; SSCD), vestibular disorders, vestibular, audiology, Au.D. program, balance

Publication Date

2019

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2019 Laurel E. Smith