Developing Language Sampling and Transcription Procedures for Hmong Speakers

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the feasibility of obtaining a Hmong language samplefrom adults living in the United States whose first language (L1) is Hmong using a recorded script and reliably transcribing the samples to derive language measures. Findings from this study will inform the assessment of the language abilities of children who speak Hmong as their LI and may help identify significant language-learning weaknesses that require intervention. Method: The study included 15 adults aged 23 to 38 years with no known developmental concerns and whose first language was Hmong. Adult participants completed background information along with the Language Experience and Proficiency Questionnaire (LEAP-Q) to characterize their Hmong and English language skills. Using recorded scripts, examiners prompted participants to retell a story in their L1 (Hmong). Results: Results indicated that researchers were able to reliable transcribe Hmong language samples. Initial mean percent agreement for utterance segmentation, number of words per line, and word for word transcription were 97%, 93%, and 91%, respectively. Agreement for unintelligible marking, and mazes were below 80%: 14% and 76%, respectively. Researchers identified modifications to traditional English transcription conventions and were able to derive eight core language measures from the Hmong samples using SALT software. Conclusion: Study results provide guidance for reliable transcription of narrative samples obtained from adult Hmong-speakers. Further modifications of transcription conventions may be necessary for child Hmong-speakers. This study serves as a beginning step to better understanding the language skills of young Hmong language speakers.