Cross-cultural adaptation of the administration instructions of the Developmental Test of Visual Perception (3rd Edition) for isiZulu-speaking children

Abstract

Introduction: Visual perceptual skills are vital for developing academic skills and contribute to language development and socio-cultural par ticipation. The Developmental Test of Visual Perception 3rd Edition evaluates visual perceptual skills but is only available in English. lsiZulu is the most spoken language in South Africa (24,4%), with English being the fourth. Therefore, the English version of the Developmental Test of Visual Perception 3rd Edition cannot be described as a universally authentic assessment instrument in this context.

Methodology: This study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Developmental Test of Visual Perception 3rd Edition administration  instructions  into  isiZulu  using  a  five-stage qualitatively driven multimethod sequen tial design. Qualitative feedback on the functional, cultural and conceptual equivalence was obtained at various intervals.

Results: This study demonstrated a methodology for translating and cross-culturally adapting the administration instructions of the Developmental Test of Visual Perception 3rd Edition into isiZulu to advance the authenticity of the assessment within the South African context. The isiZulu version was found to be functionally, culturally and conceptually equivalent.

Conclusions: This research has demonstrated a framework upon which  the  cross-cultural  adaptations  of  other  assessment instruments and other languages in South Africa can be based.

Implications for practice

• The rigorous methodology demonstratedi n this research can be used as a framework to guide other studies in the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of other assessment instruments and in to other languages.


• This study demonstrated that multiple contributors from various backgrounds are necessary to ensure equivalence during the process  of translation and cross-cultural adaptation. However, an emphasis is placed on the value of including occupational therapists with clinical experience when translating and cross-culturally adapting assessment instruments intended to be used within the field of occupational therapy.


• Through the rigorous method used to translate and cross-culturally adapt the DTVP-3, this study enhanced its authenticity as an instrument within the South African context.  Having isiZulu administration instructions available could provide equal opportunity  to children who may not be as proficient in English as in isiZulu.


• Once a distribution agreement has been reached with ProEdInc., the original publisher and licence holder,thei siZuluadministration instructions of the DTVP-3 will be made available for use in South Africa with isiZulu-speaking children.