Dr. Natalie Ottey is a distinguished Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Simulation, Teaching, and Research Lab (S.T.A.R Lab) at the University of the District of Columbia. With a Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders, her research focuses on integrating simulation-based learning and competency-based training to enhance the clinical training of graduate students, particularly in dysphagia assessment. As a leader in innovation and a specialist in speech-language pathology, Dr. Ottey designs simulation scenarios to bridge theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical applications, preparing students to deliver high-quality care in speech-language pathology.
Experience
Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Howard University Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, University of the District of Columbia Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario
Roles
Assistant Professor, College of Arts and Sciences, Division of Education, Health and Social Work, Speech-Language Program, UDC, 2014-Present Coordinator, The Simulation, Teaching and Research Lab (S.T.A.R Lab), Speech-Language Pathology Program, UDC, 2020-Present Assistant Professor, Division of Education, Health & Social Work, UDC, 2014-Present Program Director, Speech-Language Pathology Program, UDC, 2010-12 Instructor, Department of Languages and Communication Disorders, UDC, 2000-03 Clinical Speech-Language Pathologist, Providence Hospital, Washington, D.C. 1998-2000
Courses Taught
Graduate Level
SPLP 636 Motor Speech Disorders SPLP 638 Dysphagia SPLP 638 Advanced Dysphagia SPLP 520 Speech, Language, Hearing, and Related Disciplines SPLP 224 Anatomy & Physiology of Speech and Hearing SPLP 634 Aphasia SPLP 636 Neurophysiological Disorders of Speech and Swallowing SPLP 507 Speech, Language, Hearing, and Related Disciplines SPLP 698 Thesis Chair SPLP 560 Clinical Training and Supervision (Adult Neurogenics & Swallowing, UDC Clinic, and Acute & Rehabilitation Sites)
Expertise
Research Focus / Works in Progress
Integrating simulation-based learning and competency-based training in graduate speech-language pathology (SLP) programs; enhancing the training of pre-service and early career clinicians in dysphagia assessment; advancing pedagogies that promote clinical competency, particularly in dysphagia management; the integration of simulation technologies to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application; developing innovative strategies to ensure future clinicians deliver high-quality care; designing and implementing simulation scenarios aligned with real-world clinical challenges to promote active learning and critical thinking; embedding simulation into core SLP curricula; fostering collaboration among faculty to enhance student learning experiences; innovation in speech-language pathology training, particularly in high-stakes areas like dysphagia management
Leadership
Member, The District of Columbia Speech Hearing Association Member, American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) Member, ASHA Special Interest Group- SIG 2, Neurogenic Communication Disorders Member, ASHA Special Interest Group-SIG 13, Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders Executive Board Member, District of Columbia Speech-Language and Hearing Association (DCSHA), 2008-13
Impact
Selected Publications
Ramos, C.A., Ottey, N. (2024). Expanding opportunities for diverse speech-language pathology sudents seeking medical externships and clinical fellowship positions. Proceedings of The American Speech, Language and Hearing Association Annual Convention.
Ramos, C.A., Ottey, N. (2024). Speech-language pathology students’ perceived confidence in administering the clinical evaluation of swallowing following a high-fidelity simulation training. Proceedings of The American Speech, Language and Hearing Association Annual Convention.
Ottey, N., Ramos-Pizarro, C.A., (2024). Summative clinical assessment of pre-service graduate speech-language pathology students using a simulation-based model. Proceedings of The American Speech, Language and Hearing Association Annual Convention.
Selected Presentations
Ramos-Pizarro, C.A., Ottey, N. (2018). The use of simulation and feedback in the training auditory-perceptual skills. The American Speech-Language and Hearing Association, Annual Convention, Boston, Massachusetts.
Ramos-Pizarro, C.A., Ottey, N. (2018). The use of simulation in perceptual-acoustical training. The National Black Association Speech-Language and Hearing (NBASLH), Washington, D.C.
Selected Grants
UDC. (2024). INSTA-program for the training of advanced dysphagia.
