Professional Preparation in Cochlear Implants (PPCI) is an intensive program for professionals providing early intervention (0-5) services for children with cochlear implants. It is designed for teachers of deaf children, speech- language pathologists and educational audiologists with beginning-to-limited experience in providing (re)habilitation services to children with implants. Nine graduate credits from Smith College and/or ASHA CEUs are awarded upon completion of all elements of PPCI.

PPCI has four major components:

• Prerequisite learning through an independent study curriculum
• Thirteen days of intensive onsite learning
• Individual program of mentoring
• Participation in capstone experience

During the period of Prerequisite Learning, a series of comprehensive, independent study modules will be completed between the time of acceptance into the program and arrival at the onsite location for direct learning.

Thirteen days of Onsite Learning will take place at one of three regional sites: Pennsylvania, Georgia, or California. Each site will provide a hospital- and school-based component. Discussions, guided observation and case study review will complement presentations by area experts.

The PPCI Mentoring Component will meet the individual participant's goals and expectations. Each professional will be matched with a discipline-specific mentor. Together the participant and mentor will develop unique projects intended to assist the participant in achieving professional growth and development

Once yearly, participants from all PPCI sites will attend an extended weekend session for a Capstone Experience. This final requirement will provide an opportunity to extend networking through reporting on individual projects and sharing results of the personal and professional strategic plans for change.

The majority of the program costs associated with PPCI will be generously covered by a training grant. This includes registration fees, key materials, lecture fees and associated costs for college credit and ASHA CEUs. Participants will be responsible for travel to and from onsite learning and the capstone experience and room and board during these periods.

Winter and summer classes now forming.

Calendar and applications available for download at www.chop.edu/ppci

Send email for more information.