Evaluating a Programme to Improve Language Outcomes of Deaf Children

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate The Hearing House’s (THH) Focus programme. The purpose of the Focus programme is to improve the listening and spoken language outcomes of children with cochlear implants and/or hearing aids who have reduced outcomes or are at risk of reduced outcomes. These reduced outcomes are often associated with poor family engagement with the service, which in turn is associated with certain factors that put the family at risk of poor engagement. Thus, the programme aims to implement individualised intervention plans to improve the engagement of these vulnerable families. Evidence shows that early intervention programmes should follow a family-centred model of service delivery to ensure optimal child outcomes. This study examines the specific processes and activities involved with the Focus programme to determine if the Focus programme is adhering to the principles of family-centred practice and if Focus is meeting its goals. Methods: The Framework for Program Evaluation and the Logic Model was used to design the method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four habilitationists from THH and three mothers who are currently on the Focus programme, or have been in the past. The resultant data was thematically analysed. Quantitative data concerning scores from standardised language assessments and parental measures of engagement were obtained from THH’s database for the entire cohort of children who have attended THH (with some exceptions). The data for Focus children was compared to non-Focus children to determine if language outcomes improved as a result of Focus. Findings: The themes from the habilitation interviews concerned the inputs and activities of Focus. The themes from the parent interviews covered parents’ needs and perceptions of support from THH. Quantitative data analysis found that receptive and expressive language outcomes generally improved as a result of Focus. Conclusions: The Focus programme adheres to the principles of family-centred therapy overall and appears to make a positive difference to child and parent outcomes. There are some areas of improvement concerning facilitating parent-to-parent support networks, collaborating with other health professionals, and flexibility of the service.