Language
sample analysis (LSA) is valuable clinical tool and an important component of
comprehensive language assessment. However, LSA is underutilized in
real-world practice. SLPs have identified time constraints, insufficient
training, and lack of confidence in LSA skills as barriers to regular LSA
implementation. Communication science and disorders (CSD) programs have
opportunities to provide LSA instruction to address these barriers and
prepare students to reliably, feasibly, and confidently use LSA in clinical
practice. This pilot study examined CSD students’ perspectives on LSA
instruction using the Language ENvironment Analysis System (LENA).
Undergraduate students (n = 38) completed a series of two electronic surveys
prior to and following LSA instruction using LENA. Changes in students’
self-ratings of knowledge and skills in collecting and analyzing language
samples, attitudes towards studying LSA and child language development, and
critical thinking skills were assessed. Significantly higher student ratings
were found for all items measuring language sampling knowledge and skills
following digital LSA instruction compared to baseline. In addition, student
ratings of enthusiasm for and confidence in studying LSA and child language
development were also significantly higher. Students’ self-ratings of
critical thinking skills did not increase significantly following instruction
in digital LSA. Implications for LSA teaching and learning are discussed.