The assessment of Auslan competence is essential for understanding and supporting the language and learning needs of signing deaf students in their educational programs. In 2016 VDEI partnered with Associate Professor Adam Schembri and La Trobe University to publish the first standardised assessment tool for Auslan, the ‘Assessing Auslan Development tool’.
Adam Schembri PhD is Reader in Linguistics in the Department of English Language & Linguistics at the University of Birmingham, UK. His research and teaching experience have encompassed several areas in sign language linguistics, including work on aspects of the lexicon, grammar and sociolinguistics of Auslan (Australian Sign Language) and British Sign Language. He is the co-author (with Trevor Johnston) of 'Australian Sign Language (Auslan): An introduction to sign language linguistics' published by Cambridge University Press.
The Assessing Auslan Development tool has been adapted from the Assessing British Sign Language Development: Receptive Skills Test and the Assessing British Sign Language Development: Production Skills Test and measures the Auslan competence of children aged between 4 and 11 years.
Analysis of assessment results enables professionals working with deaf children to make a baseline assessment, identify language difficulties, and evaluate the outcomes of therapy programs. The results of the testing provide detailed information to teachers to inform their individual planning for deaf students in their class to ensure that they are providing the appropriate adjustments for learning.
Training for the Assessing Auslan Development tool is targeted to educators and allied health professionals who are fluent in Auslan and are experienced in working with assessment protocols.
Training opportunities are currently in development and will be made available in the near future. Please check the VDEI website for updated information.
