Autonomy of audiologists in educational settings.

Professional autonomy continues to be an issue of major concern for practicing audiologists . Members of the Educational Audiology Association completed a written survey covering the amount of independence and authority they experience when employed in an educational setting . Four areas were explored : scope of practice ; referral procedures ; assessment and management activities ; and employment conditions . Responses indicated that educational audiologists have a great deal of autonomy in matters relating to the scope of their practice and the implementation of daily activities . Autonomy in the area of employment conditions was much less widespread . This report provides a detailed description of the survey responses, conclusions, and implications for future training needs for audiologists who may be employed in an educational setting .