Distinguishing between language disorder and language difference can be a challenge when a child speaks a nonmainstream English dialect. This journal self-study presents research findings that clinicians can implement with this population in their practice. Two of the articles examine modifications to scoring procedures to correct for dialect in assessments for language impairment. The third article explores the validity of a dialect-sensitive assessment tool. The final article examines the effects of a curriculum designed to teach dialectal differences. In total, the assessment and intervention strategies and tools discussed in these articles will allow SLPs to deliver more effective services and promote academic success for children who speak nonmainstream English dialects.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• discuss scoring modifications that can be used when assessing children who speak nonmainstream English dialects
• describe a spontaneous language tool designed to identify language impairment in 3-year-olds who speak African-American English
• describe a pre-kindergarten curriculum that effectively uses contrastive analysis to promote comprehension and production of mainstream English dialect

DEI Professional Development Requirement

This course counts toward the ASHA certification maintenance professional development requirement for DEI (which encompasses cultural competency; cultural humility; culturally responsive practice; and diversity, equity, and inclusion). See more courses that count toward this requirement or read more about professional development requirements for certification maintenance.

Learning Assessment
Online, multiple-choice exam