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Guidelines for Virtual Paediatric Language Assessments: Improving Your Practice

Guidelines for Virtual Paediatric Language Assessments: Improving Your Practice
Virtual care has rapidly evolved, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Speech-language pathologists (S-LPs) now frequently utilize virtual platforms to conduct standardized language and literacy assessments for children. A recent research article, "Towards development of guidelines for virtual administration of paediatric standardized language and literacy assessments: Considerations for clinicians and researchers," provides crucial recommendations to improve the quality and effectiveness of these virtual assessments.

The study identifies six key themes:

Here are some practical steps you can take to enhance your virtual assessment practice:

Candidacy for Virtual Assessment

Ensure that participants have access to a reliable internet connection and the necessary technology. Consider the child's behavioral, attentional, or cognitive needs, and adapt the testing process accordingly.

Communication and Collaboration with Caregivers

Obtain informed consent and gather background information prior to the assessment. Communicate clearly with caregivers about the assessment process, their role, and the ideal environment for the child during the session.

Technology and Equipment

Use appropriate devices with functional microphones and cameras. Ensure familiarity with the chosen software platform and verify that it meets privacy requirements. Screen mirroring and document cameras can be useful for sharing test materials.

Virtual Administration

Follow standardized assessment protocols and document any deviations. Create a suitable testing environment and ensure clear communication with the participant. Regularly check comprehension and technology functionality.

Ethics, Consent, and Confidentiality

Inform caregivers of the risks associated with virtual assessments and obtain their consent. Use secure platforms and follow regional privacy laws. Maintain detailed documentation and secure storage of personal health information.

Considerations for Bilingual Populations

Match bilingual clinicians with bilingual participants and involve caregivers or interpreters as needed. Ensure that all parties understand the assessment protocols and the importance of standardized testing rules.

By implementing these recommendations, clinicians can improve the quality and effectiveness of virtual assessments, ensuring that children receive accurate and timely evaluations. Further research is encouraged to continue refining these guidelines and exploring their application across diverse populations.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Towards development of guidelines for virtual administration of paediatric standardized language and literacy assessments: Considerations for clinicians and researchers.


Citation: Wood, E., Bhalloo, I., McCaig, B., Feraru, C., & Molnar, M. (2021). Towards development of guidelines for virtual administration of paediatric standardized language and literacy assessments: Considerations for clinicians and researchers. SAGE Open Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1177/20503121211050510
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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