Dynamic Assessment in Speech Therapy: Cultural Responsiveness and Strategies

Dynamic assessment in speech therapy is a powerful method for evaluating multilingual and multicultural children in a more comprehensive and individualized way. In a recent conversation, Melissa Farkouh and Melanie Y. Evans, a speech therapist, discussed the significance of cultural responsiveness and strategies to overcome the challenges associated with evaluating children from diverse backgrounds.

The Importance of Cultural Responsiveness

Melanie Evans emphasizes the importance of cultural responsiveness in assessment and intervention. Understanding the cultural and linguistic context of children is essential in providing effective services. Melanie shares her experience teaching culturally responsive assessment and dynamic assessment to address gaps in academic success.

Using Standardized Tests and Language Sampling

Melissa and Melanie discuss the use of standardized tests and language sampling. The latter is particularly valuable as it provides rich information about the child’s language skills and cultural context. For instance, Melanie explains how language sampling can capture elements that standardized tests often miss.

Challenges in Assessing Diverse Children

Melanie and Melissa talk about the challenges of assessing children from diverse backgrounds. It is important to engage in continuous learning and adopt an attitude of professional humility. Melanie notes that understanding sociocultural factors, such as immigration status, is crucial for accurate assessments.

Strategies for Culturally Responsive Assessment

Building Relationships and Collaborating with Parents

Building strong relationships with families and collaborating with parents are essential for culturally responsive assessment. Melanie stresses the importance of listening to parents and involving them in the assessment process. For example, she learned how cultural nuances impacted a child’s communication skills after a deep conversation with the child’s parents.

Dynamic Assessment and AI

Dynamic assessment offers a holistic understanding of a child’s communication skills. Additionally, AI tools, such as transcription and report generation, enhance the efficiency of assessments and interventions. Melanie uses AI to transcribe language samples and generate detailed reports, gaining time for more targeted interventions.

Cultural Competimility: Humility and Competence

Cultural “competimility” combines humility and competence to offer inclusive and effective services. Melanie and Melissa emphasize that understanding sociocultural factors is essential for providing welcoming and respectful therapy.

Conclusion and Invitation to Training

Dynamic assessment and cultural responsiveness are critical for improving outcomes for multilingual and multicultural children. Adopt the strategies discussed by Melanie Y. Evans to offer precise assessments and better interventions.

Join Me for Dynamic Assessment Training

Want to learn more about dynamic assessment in speech therapy? Sign up now to participate in my new training series. We’ll explore these innovative methods together and transform your practice.

Links to Connect with Melanie: Follow Melanie @pediatricspeechsister on Instagram, listen to her podcast The Pediatric Speech Sister Show Podcast: Building Culturally Responsive Practice with Melanie Y. Evans, MS CCC-SLP on Apple Podcasts, and explore her tools and courses on Linktree.