Elaine Hitchcock

Elaine Hitchcock is an esteemed Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Montclair State University, where she has made significant strides in the field of speech therapy and intervention. With a robust academic background and a passion for advancing speech therapy practices, Hitchcock has been recognized for her innovative research, particularly in the realm of telepractice. Her dedication to the field is exemplified by her recent achievement of securing a National Institutes of Health (NIH) R15 grant amounting to $435,000, marking her second NIH grant. This funding underscores the importance and impact of her work in the telepractice delivery of speech therapy. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a rapid transition to telepractice, bringing to light the critical need for effective online assessment tools and methods. Hitchcock's research is at the forefront of this shift, focusing on evaluating the efficacy of speech intervention through real-time visual-acoustic biofeedback delivered via remote technologies. Her work is pivotal in addressing the public health need for accessible and effective speech therapy solutions in a digital age. In addition to her work on telepractice, Hitchcock is actively involved in developing an online battery designed to assess the perception of targeted speech sounds. Her research also delves into the effects of online auditory-perceptual training, particularly for children who experience speech production errors and atypical auditory perception. This aspect of her research is crucial for understanding and improving speech perception and production in young learners, thereby enhancing their communication skills and overall quality of life. Hitchcock's research is not conducted in isolation; it is part of a collaborative effort with esteemed institutions such as New York University and Syracuse University. This collaboration enriches her work, bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives to tackle complex challenges in speech therapy and intervention. Her commitment to collaboration and innovation continues to drive advancements in the field, making significant contributions to both academic research and practical applications in speech therapy. Through her research and teaching, Elaine Hitchcock is shaping the future of speech therapy, ensuring that it evolves to meet the needs of a changing world. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also has a tangible impact on the lives of individuals who benefit from improved speech therapy practices. As she continues her research, Hitchcock remains a leading figure in the field, inspiring both her students and colleagues with her dedication and vision.