title: Technological Innovations and Intervention Practices for Children With Cochlear Implants.
abstract: This clinical forum has addressed many of the challenges associated with serving children who have cochlear implants. These include determining who may be a candidate for implantation; optimizing parent-child interactions for oral communication; developing comprehensive preschool programs; assessing and maximizing opportunities to communicate and learn in regular classrooms; making choices in communication modalities; providing effective intervention; and serving as a liaison for parents, school personnel, and medical professionals. In response to these challenges, the forum has provided the technical information needed to understand how a cochlear implant works, important research findings regarding choices in communication modalities, and ideas for assessing and serving children with implants. This information can provide speech, language, and hearing professionals with a base for developing their skills in the role of "local experts" for children who have cochlear implants. Filling this role also requires continuing education to keep up with innovations in technology and advancements in clinical practice. It is hoped that this forum has provided an impetus for further learning in a rapidly emerging and fascinating area of our profession.
authors.affiliation: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN.
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Ertmer