Development of a new Flemish arithmetic test for primary school children

In short 

This project focuses on the development and standardisation of a new Flemish arithmetic test for primary school children, specifically designed for use in speech therapy. The test targets children from first to sixth grade and aims to provide both diagnostic and practice-oriented value. 

Need and relevance 

There is a clear need within the speech therapy field for a recent, standardised arithmetic test tailored to the Flemish context. Existing tools do not sufficiently align with: 

• current scientific insights 
• primary education mathematics curricula 
• the practical needs of speech therapists 

Moreover, there is a demand for an instrument that can support applications for reimbursement of speech therapy. This project addresses this gap by developing a reliable and relevant assessment tool. 

From approach to impact 

The project is carried out through a collaboration between the four Flemish university colleges offering speech therapy programmes and the Flemish Association of Speech Therapists. 

We first develop a new arithmetic test, based on: 

• recent scientific insights 
• primary education curricula 
• input from professional practice 

Next, we conduct large-scale standardisation with primary school children, involving students from the participating institutions. 

The expected impact includes: 

• a validated and standardised test for speech therapists 
• improved diagnostics and targeted support for children 
• support in reimbursement procedures 
• stronger alignment between education, research and professional practice