A Holistic View of Language and Cultural Context with Dr. Alexander Tan
Today’s episode is Part 2 to our recent solo episode about English language learners. We are focusing on the bigger picture of language as only one part of a child’s entire cultural context affecting performance on all educational and neuropsychological evaluations. Join us to learn more from today’s guest!
Dr. Alexander Tan is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist and supervisor at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). His expertise is in the assessment of neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents. He is an internationally recognized expert and frequent speaker about topics such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and mental health.
Show Highlights:
- Dr. Tan’s background and how he came to the work he does today in private practice and at CHOC
- Understanding language, cultural context, neurodiversity, and why there are limitations and problems with inappropriate assessment methods
- Bilingualism—a multifaceted construct that always requires “digging deeper”
- Dr. Tan’s experience with parents’ frustrations at evaluations that don’t show a fair and accurate representation of their child
- A neuropsychological evaluation that is culturally and linguistically responsive can help avoid major risks.
- ALL aspects of a child’s culture must be considered in evaluations, including language, nonverbal communication, values, economics, etc.
Links/Resources:
Connect with Dr. Alexander Tan: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.
If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.
Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Email us: admin@iepcalifornia.org