Use of Workload Analysis for Caseload Establishment in the Recruitment and Retention of School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists

Abstract

Personnel shortages have been a persistent challenge in the field of special education. In particular, shortages in the ranks of speech-language pathologists have been acute for many years. The inability to recruit and retain speech-language pathologists may result in underserving a vulnerable and growing student population. Although there are various reasons for these shortages, a predominant rationale has been poor working conditions, especially large, unmanageable caseloads and increasing administrative paperwork requirements. Proponents of a new methodology for establishing caseload configurations, called workload analysis, claim that this will improve recruitment and retention of speech-language pathologists. This article considers the source, application of, and empirical evidence relating to workload analysis. The conclusion is that there is insufficient evidence to support the claims. A direction for further research on the issue is presented.