Exploring Communication Strategies used by Speech-Language Pathologists in Multilingual Contexts in Malaysia
Date
2017
Authors
Khalid, Khadijah
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Abstract
Exploring Communication Strategies used by
Speech-Language Pathologists in Multilingual Contexts in Malaysia
Abstract: Communication is critical to the work of
speech-language pathologists (SLPs). In highly multilingual
societies like Malaysia, the complexity of communication is
distinct from SLP practices in more monolingually-oriented
jurisdictions, especially in terms of professional discourse. The
issue of unshared or limited overlapping linguistic repertoires
between professionals and clients is common in Malaysia. This may
contribute to a high risk of misinterpretation and
miscommunication, which could lead to misdiagnosis and improper
management. Therefore, research on how to systematically manage
SLP-client interactions where participants lack a language
variety in common is essential. Currently, there is no
documentation as to what kinds of strategies Malaysian SLPs use
to compensate for the communication gap between them and their
clients when they have limited or no shared language. Hence, the
aim of this study is to gather such information and to recommend
broad policy guidelines in relation to multilingual SLP-client
interactions. Data were collected through semi-structured
interviews with 10 SLPs across Malaysia from diverse practice
backgrounds. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse
transcribed data and generate themes. Findings include 1) current
practices and recommendations relating to assessment and
intervention when there is limited or no shared language between
clients and SLPs, 2) strategies that can be used to facilitate
effective communication with these clients, and 3) recommended
practices when working with ad hoc and professional
translators.The significant of this study is that it offers some
important insights into multilingualism issue present in
Malaysia, regarding the professional discourse in the healthcare
contexts and provides an opportunity to advance our knowledge on
language proficiency management, particularly in the SLP
profession.
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Keywords
Communication Strategies, Speech-Language Pathologists, Multilingual, Professional discourse, Healthcare
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Thesis (Masters)
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DOI
10.25911/5d6e494a8c35c