The rapid rise of virtual care has created an urgent need for effective guidelines to administer standardized language and literacy assessments for children. The research article "Towards development of guidelines for virtual administration of paediatric standardized language and literacy assessments: Considerations for clinicians and researchers" by Wood et al. (2021) offers critical insights and recommendations for clinicians and researchers.
Based on a comprehensive review of literature and interviews with experts, the article outlines six key themes that are essential for the successful virtual administration of standardized assessments:
- Candidacy for Virtual Assessment: Not all children are suitable candidates for virtual assessments. Clinicians must ensure that participants have access to reliable internet and devices, and make accommodations for those with behavioral, attentional, or cognitive difficulties.
- Communication and Collaboration with Caregivers: Obtaining informed consent and collaborating closely with caregivers is crucial. Clinicians should discuss assessment logistics, such as device usage, testing environment, and caregiver involvement, ahead of time.
- Technology and Equipment: Clinicians must use appropriate devices, ensure a stable internet connection, and be proficient with the necessary software. It is recommended to use two devices: one for video conferencing and another for screen mirroring test materials.
- Administration of Standardized Assessments: Adhering to standardized assessment rules is essential. Clinicians should document any deviations from standard procedures and ensure an optimal testing environment.
- Ethics, Consent, and Confidentiality: Clinicians must inform caregivers of the risks associated with virtual assessments and ensure compliance with privacy laws. Obtaining informed consent for all aspects of the virtual session is mandatory.
- Considerations for Bilingual Participants: Matching bilingual clinicians with bilingual participants and involving caregivers for translation can improve the assessment process. Using interpreters with caregivers' consent can also be beneficial.
Implementing these recommendations can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of virtual assessments. Clinicians and researchers are encouraged to integrate these guidelines into their practice and contribute to further research in this evolving field.
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.
