FCA Conference

15 May 2012

Melissa McCarthyMelissa McCarthy

High-Speed Broadband Applications in the HomeHigh-Speed Broadband

Applications in the Home

(Who is RIDBC?)(Who is RIDBC?)

Why is RIDBC necessary?Why is RIDBC necessary?

• Early diagnosis and intervention in children with hearing loss is critical for natural language development. (Yoshinaga-Itano, et al., 1998)

• Children with hearing and/or vision impairment require specialized early intervention support. (Sass-Lehrer, 2002)

Why use technology?Why use technology?

• Low incidence disabilities

• Population affected regardless of location

• Higher incidence in indigenous communities

• Limited supply of qualified specialists

• Recruitment, retention and ongoing PD

What does it look like?What does it look like?

What kind of technology?What kind of technology?

• High-end videoconferencing equipment

• Family television

• Next G cellular network

• External aerial

In-home optionIn-home option

Benefits of high-speed broadbandBenefits of high-speed broadband

• Broadens reach of highly skilled staff

• Centralising staff highlights team approach

• Appealing option for rural areas

• Highly accessible in metro areas

• Consolidation of staff knowledge

• Decreased travel time means more increased time with clients

Possible ApplicationsPossible Applications

• Increased frequency of contact with clients

• In-service training

• Team meetings

• Mentoring new staff

• Sharing expertise

For further informationFor further information

• Please see our website www.ridbc.org.au

• Or contact Melissa McCarthy Melissa.McCarthy@ridbc.org.au(02) 9872 08211 300 131 923