This
study examined differences in the quantity of child vocalizations (CVs)
between preschool and home environments using the Language Environmental
Analysis (LENA). The sample included monolingual English-speaking children (n
= 27) and Spanish–English speaking dual language learners (n = 30). A two-way
mixed effects analysis of variance with one between-subjects effect
(language) and one within-subjects effect (setting) was conducted to examine
whether there was a significant difference in CVs between home and school
settings, and whether that contrast differentially affected monolingual and
English language learner (ELL) preschool participants. Overall, there was a
significant difference in average hourly CVs between home and preschool
environments with a higher rate of CV at home than at school for both
monolinguals and ELLs. Results support the need to carefully consider the
environment in communication sampling, recognizing that child vocalization
counts (CVCs) may vary by environment.
