Recognize when language differences are due to true disorders or due the natural process of learning a second language. Learn the pros and cons of standard tests and how to use alternative testing techniques to correctly identify children with disorders.

This course addresses the assessment of language skills in bilingual children. The advantages and disadvantages of standardized tests were discussed. Alternative assessment techniques were presented. This course was designed to enhance the practitioner’s ability to differentiate language differences from language disorders.

Participants will be able to:

Identify the warning signals and false alarms of language difficulties in case studies of English language learners
List necessary sources of information to make appropriate referrals and diagnoses
Describe L1 language loss and implications for assessment
Describe common signs of language impairment in bilingual children
Discuss the appropriateness of formal and informal testing procedures
Describe test modifications to obtain more information for accurate diagnosis
Identify possible sources of misdiagnosis
Identify several alternative forms of assessment
Discuss how to use interpreters successfully
Time-Ordered Agenda:

05 minutes: Introduction

10 minutes: Indicators of language disorders

10 minutes: Vocabulary development and retention

20 minutes: Normal processes of second language acquisition

10 minutes: Pros and cons of formal and informal testing

12 minutes: Differentiating language difference from disorder

10 minutes: Identifying possible sources of misdiagnosis

08 minutes: Reporting findings from a bilingual assessment

05 minutes: Closing and questions

Practitioners attending live events will be asked to answer questions at the end of the course about what they learned and how they will use the information they learned in practice. Once the questions (below) are completed, participants will receive their certificate.
One practical takeaway I plan to apply from this session is __________.
Overall, how familiar were you with today’s topic before attending this webinar?
After attending, how confident are you in applying at least one concept from this webinar?
Rate your overall satisfaction with this webinar.
One practical takeaway I will apply from this session is __________.
Practitioners attending recorded sessions demonstrate learning and attendance by passing a quiz with a score of 80% or greater. The quiz addresses questions from material presented throughout the course. Practitioners can retake the quiz if they do not initially obtain a score of at least 80%. For events including case studies, participants download, read, and utilize materials in order to participate.