Translation, adaptation and, validation of the Communication Matrix parent version to use with Sinhala speaking parents

Abstract

Introduction: The Communication Matrix is a widely used objective AAC assessment worldwide. Objectives: The major objective of the study was to translate, adapt and validate the Communication Matrix parent version to Sinhala. Methods: The Sinhala translated Communication Matrix was developed through a forward-backwards translation procedure. Six experts including 04 SLTs and 02 linguists contributed to validate the translated tool in 02 rounds using an open-ended questionnaire and a four-point rating scale. The Modified Delphi technique was used for this procedure. Face and content validity was determined. A group of 10 parents contributed to pretest the translated tool by answering an open-ended questionnaire. Results: The face validation was evaluated qualitatively based on the answers provided to the open-ended questionnaire given to the expert panel round 01 and it was adequate. In the expert panel round 02, the item content validity index (I-CVI) and the scale validity index (S-CVI) were measured and both I-CVI and S-CVI s were equal to 1. Pre-testing the translated tool was also successful as the parents provided mostly positive answers to the questions. Conclusions: The Sinhala translated Matrix is an appropriate self-administrative, objective AAC assessment which could be used in local clinical settings. Moreover, this can be used to involve parents in decision-making procedures with professionals despite their educational background when selecting the most suitable AAC for their children.