Richard A. Dressler, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

Background

Dr. Dressler is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication Disorders. He has been at WKU since 2001 and teaches courses in the areas of research methodology, neurophysiology of speech and language, motor speech disorders, advanced neurology, speech science, and advanced diagnostics. Dr. Dressler is the author of the Language Activity Resource Kit (LARK), LARK Workbook, and co-author of the LARK Software program, which are published by Pro-Ed, Inc. (http://www.proedinc.com). He also directs the Acquired Brain Injury Resource Program which is one of the programs in the new Clinical Education Complex (www.wkucec.com).

Teaching Philosophy

Dr. Dressler has extensive clinical experience working in medical settings as a speech-language pathologist. He strives to bridge the gap between learning information in class and textbooks with practical application of the information to the clinical setting. His classes are designed to engage the student in both applying knowledge to a skill based outcome and using group projects to enhance team building skills.

Courses Taught

CD 500 Research Methodology in Communication Disorders
CD 502 Motor Speech Disorders
CD 503 Advanced Diagnostics
CD 509 Speech Science
CD 511 Neurophysiology of Speech and Language
CD 513 Advanced Neurology

Research Interests

Dr. Dressler has published articles related to the use of computers in speech therapy, conversational coding systems, and evaluation of cognitive disorders. He is collaborating with the School of Audiology and Speech Pathology at The University of Memphis to collect audio and video data of various speakers with neurogenic communication disorders during conversational interactions. Dr. Dressler is also interested in exploring the use of video-conferencing technology to connect individuals in rural areas with local support groups, and for offering remote service delivery of speech services to rural patients.