Affiliations 

  • 1 Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness (H-CARE), Speech Sciences Programme, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • 2 Department of Rehabilitation, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitasato University, Kanagawa, Japan
  • 3 Faculty of Health Sciences, Speech Sciences Programme, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • 4 Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Health and Human Services, Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
Int J Speech Lang Pathol, 2021 12;23(6):662-671.
PMID: 33823717 DOI: 10.1080/17549507.2021.1877816

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate speech-language pathologists' current perceptions, previous training experiences, resources, barriers, and training needs in terms of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in two Asian countries.Method: Their knowledge and attitudes about EBP were explored using an online questionnaire. A descriptive analysis was conducted with consideration of the effect of demographic variables on knowledge and attitudes about EBP.Result: Malaysian speech-language pathologists (n = 98) displayed more positive attitudes toward EBPs, with a significantly higher (t (143) = 5.91, p < .01) total mean score (Mean = 120.7, SD = 11) compared to the Japanese speech-language pathologists (n = 47, Mean = 107.8, SD = 13.5). Malaysian practitioners who were female, worked full-time, and worked in government settings reported higher motivation to develop EBP skills. Japanese practitioners who worked in private sectors reported higher EBPs training needs than those in government settings. In both countries, speech-language pathologists with higher education levels tended to express fewer perceived barriers towards EBP.Conclusion: Findings could help local governance and speech-language pathologist associations to understand the current practices and professional development needs of speech-language pathologists, leading to more effective training programs and educating employers and managers who can reinforce EBP among practitioners.

* Title and MeSH Headings from MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.