As school psychologists, one of our greatest responsibilities is communicating evaluation results effectively to families, students, and colleagues. It’s a form of communication that requires empathy and a clear use of language. In this blog post, I’ll share three key strategies to enhance your ability to explain evaluation results succinctly.
Taming the Jargon Beast
Let’s face it—our field is rife with jargon. Terms like “fluid reasoning,” “conceptualization,” and “standard scores” may roll off our tongues effortlessly, but they can be perplexing to others. While jargon has its place in our professional discourse, over-reliance on these terms can cause confusion among parents and students. Strive for clarity and accessibility in your explanations.
One effective way to simplify jargon is by consulting reputable resources. Essential textbooks like “Essentials of Learning Disabilities” or “Assessment Essentials” offer multiple definitions and practical examples that can simplify complex concepts. Additionally, consider using AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to generate parent-friendly explanations or alternative terms for technical terms.
Balancing Jargon and Accessibility
While jargon should be used sparingly, there are instances where its inclusion can enhance understanding. Take, for example, a learning disability. While providing a parent-friendly explanation is essential, incorporating the technical term can empower families to seek further information and resources. Strive for a balance between professional terminology and accessible language, ensuring that your audience feels informed and supported.
Consider adopting the “doctor’s analogy.” Just as a physician might employ medical terminology alongside layman’s terms when discussing a diagnosis, school psychologists can integrate jargon into their explanations. This approach acknowledges the complexity of the topic while prioritizing clarity and comprehension.
Empathy in Communication
Above all, effective communication hinges on empathy. Put yourself in the shoes of your audience—whether they’re parents grappling with unfamiliar terminology or colleagues seeking clarity on assessment results. Tailor your explanations to their needs, providing context and reassurance where necessary. Remember, the goal isn’t just to disseminate information but to foster understanding and empowerment.
As you refine your communication skills, prioritize empathy and accessibility in your interactions. By speaking the language of your audience, you can build trust, instill confidence, and empower others to advocate for themselves and their children.
We have covered best practices when explaining evaluation results, but what about best practices when evaluating executive functioning skills?
Our next live training in our “Let’s Grow Together” series is on March 25th! Executive skills impact our students with attentional concerns, those on the autism spectrum, and many students in general and special education. What are executive skills, and how/when should we evaluate them? This is a question often heard, and in this training, I will delve into the main executive skills and discuss a variety of methods to evaluate these skills.
If you haven’t signed up yet, there is still time! Take advantage of our student discounts and purchase orders for districts!
