Developing standardized speech and language assessment tools in Mandarin Chinese: A context for improving reading and writing

Abstract

Discussion to improve reading/writing competences of all students too often assumes ‘normal’ language development, hence it easily omits consideration of language disability and overlooks significant groups of learners – in China, potentially 70 million children and adults with speech and language therapy needs. However, little information is available about practices for language assessments in Chinese and about how language assessment tools are used in kindergartens and schools in China. To address this gap, this study explores the circumstances and provisions for assessing Mandarin-speaking children; through a survey, interviews and observations it ascertains the needs for assessment tools and identifies associated challenges. Specifically, data are analysed through 145 questionnaires gathered from Chinese speech and language therapists (SLTs) to help identify key difficulties in using current language assessment tools. In addition, seven individual interviews with SLTs and two focus-group interviews were conducted to probe the reasons underlying the difficulties and to identify strategies for improvement. The analysis shows a severe shortage of reliable and valid speech and language assessment tools in Chinese. With due training for language teachers and SLTs, these standardized tools could be applied in kindergarten and school contexts. If systematic and affordable pre- and in-service language assessment training programmes are established, they can support teachers in kindergartens and schools to develop reading and writing in Chinese with solid evidence, besides identifying children who may have delays in language development. Without standardized tools to measuring reading and writing abilities accurately, and without early assessment and appropriate intervention, some children with language disabilities will face lifelong disadvantages. In this way, developing Mandarin Chinese assessment tools for SLTs is part of wider literacy development for all.