Parent Perceptions of an Online Training in Language Development

Abstract

In this study we aimed to investigate the usability and acceptability of an online training program, Language Together, which was developed for caregivers of children aged 5 years and younger, with, or at risk of language disorders. Language Together presented material on language development and strategies to facilitate language development using a multimedia website. Language Together was developed using the Wix.com platform and was made available online. Twenty-nine caregivers and seven professionals completed both the training and pre-post questionnaires which aimed to evaluate the usability and acceptability of the program. Caregivers and professionals rated Language Together as a useable and acceptable program to develop knowledge about language development. Participants found the online format easy to access and could complete the training at a time and location that was convenient. Most caregivers and professionals identified that they enjoyed the range of resources included in the training especially the video materials. Online training programs can be a useable and acceptable method for providing information about language development.

Keywords::

• Caregiver
• Language Development
• Language Facilitation
• Online Training

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lydia Timms

Lydia Timms, Suze Leitão and Mary Claessen are all academic researchers at Curtin University, with clinical and research experience with paediatric populations.

Isabella Sciullo

Isabella Sciullo completed her honours project at Curtin University and works as a community speech pathologist.

Hannah Nizich

Hannah Nizich completed her honours project at Curtin University and currently works as a private paediatric speech pathologist.

Suze Leitão

Lydia Timms, Suze Leitão and Mary Claessen are all academic researchers at Curtin University, with clinical and research experience with paediatric populations.

Mary Claessen

Lydia Timms, Suze Leitão and Mary Claessen are all academic researchers at Curtin University, with clinical and research experience with paediatric populations.