Are you a speech-language pathologist looking to enhance your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in your field? Would you like to avoid the high costs associated with continuing education units (CEUs)? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we will show you how to access a wide range of free CEUs specifically designed for SLPs, allowing you to enhance your expertise without breaking the bank. From online webinars to professional conferences to resources provided by reputable organizations, we've curated a comprehensive list of free opportunities that will help you stay current and expand your knowledge base. Whether you're a seasoned speech language pathologist or just starting your career, this guide is your go-to resource for accessing quality, low cost, and free CEUs. Join us as we dive into the world of free CEUs and discover how you can supercharge your professional development without spending a dime.
Online Platforms Offering Free CEUs for SLPs
Online platforms have revolutionized the way we access education and training, and they are a treasure trove of free CEUs for SLPs. Websites such as SpeechPathology.com, SpeechPathologyCEUs.com, and MedBridge Education offer a wide range of free courses, webinars, and resources specifically designed for SLPs, as well as other low cost options. These platforms host reputable content from leading experts in the field and cover various topics, from early intervention to dysphagia management to language disorders.
1. AAC in the Cloud offers recorded conferences about AAC related topics for free CEUs for SLPs. Fill out survey link at the end of each video and they will generate a certificate for you.
2. Bilinguistics offers free CEUs for SLPs as well as low cost options. They offer 4 free CEUs for SLPs, including one on the topic of Ethics. They also offer a very economical annual pass (starting at $19.99) with over 40 online CEU courses, that you can complete at your convenience.
3. CEU Allied Health offers low cost CEUs for SLPs related to dysphagia and FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing).
4. CEU Smarthub offers one free ethics course and one free supervision course for SLPs. CEUs are reported to ASHA and CMH certificates are available at no charge.
5. Leaders Project offers many free self study CEU courses for SLPs on a wide variety of topics for speech language pathologists.
6. Lingraphica offers 32 free CEUs for SLPs with a variety of topics related to AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
7. Passy Muir offers web-based self-study free CEU courses for SLPs which cover basic and advanced concepts for Passy Muir® Valve assessment and application. Passy Muir also offers live continuing education through Zoom.
8. PhagiaFlex offers a free eBook about PhagiaFlex and the CTAR exercise when you sign up for the mailing list. Reading a free book about swallowing exercises for SLPs can be counted as self study hours for ASHA CEUs. You can also schedule an online free demo and live instruction session for additional self study free CEUs. Send a request to schedule a free demo.
9. PRC-Saltillo offers free CEUs for SLPs in the area of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). These free CEUs for SLPs help SLPs understand the products and provide implementation tips and strategies to help support AAC learners. Most classes are taught by Saltillo consultants, but they also have some that are from guest presenters. ASHA credit is offered unless otherwise noted.
10. SATPAC (Systematic Articulation Training Program Accessing Computers) offers a 3 hour free CEU course for SLPs with ASHA reporting.
11. Speechpathology.com offers one free CEU class of your choice, and they also offer a low cost annual membership for unlimited CEUs for SLPs about a wide range of topics in the field of speech language pathology. Enter promo code 1FREECOURSE at registration.
12. SLP Summit offers free live virtual event CEUs for SLPs on school based topics which you can submit to ASHA on your own for free, or you can pay $29.99 to have them submit them to ASHA for you.
13. Tobii Dynavox offers free CEUs for SLPs related to AAC devices.
14. University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health offers several recorded lectures on voice and swallowing which are approved by ASHA as free CEUs for SLPs. They will be reported to ASHA through the CE Registry, but they say it could take up to 6 months to appear on your ASHA transcript. You will receive a copy of your completion certificate immediately.
Importance of CEUs for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
Continuing education units (CEUs) play a crucial role in the professional development of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). As a dynamic field, SLPs need to constantly update their skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care for their clients. CEUs serve as a means to stay current with the latest research, techniques, and advancements in the field of speech-language pathology. They ensure that SLPs are equipped with the most up-to-date tools and strategies to address the diverse needs of their clients.
Moreover, CEUs are often required by licensing boards and professional associations to maintain and renew SLP certifications. These requirements help to ensure that SLPs are consistently learning and growing, maintaining the highest standards of practice in their profession. By acquiring CEUs, SLPs not only meet the necessary requirements but also demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in their field.
All speech language pathologists must maintain their Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA, and this requires 30 CEUs, or Professional Development Hours (PDHs) every 3 years.
SLPs can view their 3-year certification maintenance interval and the CEU courses that have been credited on the ASHA website.
ASHA requires at least 2 hours in the areas of cultural competency, culturally responsive practice, cultural humility, or diversity, equity, and inclusion and at least 1 hour in the area of ethics to be completed during each 3-year certification maintenance interval.
Understanding the Different Types of CEUs
Before diving into the world of free CEUs, it's important to understand the different types of CEUs available to SLPs. CEUs can be classified into various categories, such as live courses, online courses, webinars, conferences, workshops, and self-study programs. Each type has its own advantages and offers unique opportunities for learning and growth.
Live courses and conferences provide SLPs with the chance to interact with experts in the field, engage in hands-on activities, and network with fellow professionals. These events offer a vibrant learning environment and the opportunity to gain insights from experienced practitioners. Online courses and webinars, on the other hand, provide flexibility and convenience, allowing SLPs to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes. Self-study programs, including books, e-books, and recorded lectures, offer a more independent learning experience and allow SLPs to explore specific areas of interest in depth.
Benefits of Free CEUs for SLPs
Accessing free CEUs offers numerous benefits for SLPs, beyond the obvious advantage of saving money. Free CEUs allow SLPs to expand their knowledge base, explore new areas of interest, and keep up with the latest research and advancements in the field. By taking advantage of free CEUs, SLPs can stay current with best practices, evidence-based interventions, and emerging trends, ensuring that they provide the highest level of care to their clients.
Furthermore, free CEUs offer SLPs the opportunity to explore topics that may not be covered in their day-to-day work. They can delve into specialized areas, such as bilingual speech-language pathology, augmentative and alternative communication, or voice disorders, without the financial burden of paid courses. This broadens their skill set and equips them to address a wider range of client needs, ultimately enhancing their professional value and career prospects.
Where to Find More Free CEUs for SLPs
Now that we understand the importance and benefits of free CEUs and some places to find them, let's explore where to find more of these valuable resources. Fortunately, there are numerous platforms, associations, organizations, and events that offer free CEUs for SLPs. By leveraging these opportunities, you can access quality education and training without spending a dime. Let's take a closer look at some of the best sources for free CEUs.
Professional Associations and Organizations Offering Free CEUs for SLPs
Professional associations and organizations are another excellent source of free CEUs for SLPs. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the leading professional organization for SLPs, provides a plethora of free resources for its members, including webinars, podcasts, and online courses. ASHA's Practice Portal is a particularly valuable resource, offering evidence-based information and practice guidelines on a wide range of topics. This is a great place to find topics for self study free CEUs.
Other organizations, such as the National Association for Speech-Language Pathologists in Private Practice (NASLPPP) and the American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology (AAPPSPA), also offer free CEUs and resources for SLPs. These organizations cater to the unique needs of private practice SLPs, providing valuable insights and support for running a successful practice.
Webinars and Virtual Conferences for Acquiring Free CEUs
Webinars and virtual conferences have gained popularity in recent years, and they offer a convenient way to earn free CEUs from the comfort of your own home or office. Organizations like SpeechPathology.com and ASHA host regular webinars on a variety of topics, allowing SLPs to gain valuable knowledge and earn CEUs without the hassle of travel or time away from work.
In addition, many professional conferences now offer virtual attendance options, allowing SLPs to access conference sessions and earn CEUs remotely. These virtual conferences often provide recordings of the sessions, allowing attendees to watch at their convenience and earn CEUs even after the event has ended. Virtual conferences also offer the opportunity to network with other professionals and engage in discussions through online forums and chat rooms.
Tips for Maximizing Your Learning Experience with Free CEUs
While free CEUs offer a cost-effective way to enhance your professional development, it's important to approach them strategically to maximize your learning experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your free CEU opportunities.
1. Set Clear Goals: Before diving into a free CEU course or webinar, take a moment to define your goals and objectives. What specific skills or knowledge do you want to gain? By setting clear goals, you can focus your learning and ensure that you achieve tangible outcomes.
2. Create a Schedule: Treat your free CEUs like any other professional commitment. Block off time in your calendar to complete the course or webinar, and stick to your schedule. By dedicating specific time for learning, you'll be more likely to follow through and get the most out of the experience.
3. Take Notes and Reflect: As you engage with the content, take notes and reflect on what you're learning. Jot down key points, questions, and ideas that come to mind. After completing the course or webinar, review your notes and consider how you can apply the knowledge to your practice.
4. Engage with Others: Many online platforms and webinars offer opportunities for discussion and interaction with other participants. Take advantage of these opportunities to engage with fellow SLPs, ask questions, and share insights. Collaborating with others can deepen your understanding and expand your professional network.
5. Follow Up with Further Study: Free CEUs often provide a foundation for further study. If you find a particular topic fascinating, consider exploring it in more depth through additional resources, books, or paid courses. This will allow you to deepen your expertise and become a true subject matter expert.
Conclusion: Investing in Your Professional Development with Free CEUs
So, as you can see, there are so many opportunities to earn high quality free CEUs for SLPs. There is plenty to learn, without spending a penny!
Continuing education units (CEUs) are an essential component of a speech-language pathologist's professional development. They provide SLPs with the tools, knowledge, and skills needed to deliver high-quality care to their clients. While the cost of CEUs can be a barrier for many SLPs, the availability of free CEUs opens up a world of opportunities for professional growth and learning.
By leveraging online platforms, professional associations, and virtual conferences, SLPs can access a wealth of free resources specifically designed for their needs. These free CEUs not only save money but also offer the chance to explore new areas of interest, stay current with best practices, and broaden their skill set. By investing in your professional development through free CEUs, you can enhance your expertise, advance your career, and ultimately provide the best possible care to your clients.