Applying Computer-Based Language Test to Young Children.
Yunyi Hu1,2, Kathy Yuet-Sheung Lee3,4, Tammy Hui Mei Lau3
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China, yunyihu@ent.cuhk.edu.hk.
Summary
Computer-based language tests are feasible for children aged 2-4 years, showing excellent agreement with traditional methods. Modifications are suggested for younger children to enhance language assessment accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Developmental Psychology
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Assessing language development in early childhood is crucial.
- Traditional paper-pencil tests may have limitations for young children.
- Computer-based assessments offer potential for engaging and efficient evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and agreement of a computer-based language test compared to a paper-pencil version.
- To assess the reliability of computer-based language screening for Cantonese-speaking children aged 2-4 years.
Main Methods:
- A crossover study design was employed with 32 Cantonese-speaking children (2-4 years old).
- Participants completed both computer-based and paper-pencil versions of the Macau Cantonese Language Screening Scale for Preschool Children.
- Data analysis included paired samples t-test, ICC, percentage of agreement, and Cohen's kappa.
Main Results:
- Excellent agreement was found at the overall test level between the two formats.
- Good agreement was observed in four out of five subcategories.
- High agreement (over 80%) was noted for 28 individual items, with 16 showing substantial to almost perfect agreement.
Conclusions:
- Computer-based and paper-pencil language tests yield similar scores for children aged 2-4 years.
- The computer-based test is highly recommended for children over 2 years and 6 months.
- A modified computer-based test is suggested for children younger than 2 years and 6 months to better suit their developmental needs.
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