Candidacy for Virtual Assessment
- Ensure participants have access to a reliable device and internet connection.
- Make accommodations for children with behavioral, attentional, or cognitive difficulties, such as having a caregiver present.
- Consider whether standardized assessment is appropriate for children with hearing or vision impairments, and make necessary accommodations.
Communication and Collaboration with Caregivers
- Obtain informed consent and provide thorough explanations of the assessment process.
- Gather background information from caregivers before the assessment.
- Discuss logistics such as device type, location, and caregiver presence during the assessment.
Technology and Equipment
- Use appropriate devices with functional microphones and cameras.
- Secure a stable internet connection and use compliant software platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- Consider using two devices: one for video conferencing and another for document sharing.
Administration of Standardized Assessments
- Follow standardized assessment rules and document any deviations.
- Ensure a quiet, well-lit, and distraction-free environment for both clinician and participant.
- Prepare for reinforcement and breaks to keep the child engaged.
Ethics, Consent, and Confidentiality
- Inform caregivers of the risks associated with virtual assessments and ensure compliance with privacy laws.
- Obtain detailed consent for all components of the virtual session.
- Use secure data storage and transmission methods.
Considerations for Bilingual Participants
- Match bilingual clinicians with participants who speak the same language.
- Encourage caregiver presence for translation if needed.
- Use interpreters when available and with caregiver consent.
By following these guidelines, clinicians can effectively conduct virtual standardized assessments, ensuring that children receive the accurate evaluations they need. For a more comprehensive understanding and additional recommendations, read the original research paper: Towards development of guidelines for virtual administration of paediatric standardized language and literacy assessments: Considerations for clinicians and researchers.
