Which of the following is a role of an SLPA during research activities?

Encoding and analyzing data is a fundamental role for a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) during research activities. In the context of research, SLPAs often engage in data management tasks, which may include organizing, encoding, and processing data collected from various observations and assessments. This involves translating qualitative observations into quantifiable information that can be used for further analysis, thereby contributing to the overall research goals.

Conducting interviews is generally a task that requires more specialized training and is typically performed by qualified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) rather than SLPAs. While SLPAs may assist in gathering relevant information, the depth of knowledge and expertise required for formal interviews usually falls within the professional scope of an SLP.

Setting treatment goals and developing patient therapy plans are also responsibilities that are primarily the domain of licensed speech-language pathologists. SLPAs may assist in implementing therapy plans created by an SLP but do not take the lead in these significant decision-making processes, as they require a comprehensive understanding of clinical judgment and professional guidelines that SLPs possess.

Therefore, the emphasis on encoding and analyzing data as a role of an SLPA highlights the importance of their contribution to the research process, particularly in supporting data-related tasks while working under