Web-Based BSL-Vocabulary Test

Content

The Web-Based BSL Vocabulary Test (BSL-VT) is currently the only test available to assess signing children's vocabulary knowledge. It consists of four tasks all of which use the same items and, thus, allow the test administrator to measure how well -rather than whether or not- a child knows a given sign. This information about children's strength of vocabulary knowledge can be used by professionals to guide intervention and make it more effective.

The BSL-VT was developed in 2008 at City University. Since then, it has been adapted for other signed languages, including American Sign Language (ASL) and Finnish Sign Language (FinSL). In this talk, Wolfgang gave a brief presentation of the unique format of the BSL-VT and highlighted key findings from the research carried out in BSL, ASL, and FinSL. We then invited the audience to share their own experiences with administering the BSL-VT, interpreting the findings, and any issues they may have encountered.

Target Audience

Teachers of the Deaf (ToDs), Speech Language Therapists, Teaching Assistants, Tutors, and individuals who would use the Web-based-Vocabulary Test.

Access Support will be provided.

Presenter

Wolfgang Mann, PhD, Reader in Special and Inclusive Education, University of Roehampton (London)

Wolfgang specialises in signed language development and assessment. He has developed several tests for signing deaf children including the Web-based BSL-Vocabulary Test (BSL-VT), which is available to professionals via the DCAL Assessment Portal. Wolfgang's other interests include the wider impacts of experiencing a language problem, specifically language development and language difficulties in deaf children, and (sign-) language acquisition & assessment. He has published various articles and book chapters in these areas.