Event Details

The presentation will cover the co-design of the ASQ-TRAK developmental screening tool and the expansion of the tool to develop the ASQ-TRAK2. It will highlight the tool’s acceptability to community and engagement properties. We will describe the approach to the training that has been developed to build the workforce to support the culturally responsive use of the tool. Finally, we will look at some of the challenges in reaching all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and share the next steps in the efforts to scale up the ASQ-TRAK program of work. 

• An understanding of the approach to cultural adaptation of mainstream tools
• An understanding of the importance of culturally responsive developmental practice
• Greater knowledge of the culturally responsive ASQ-TRAK training to support the culturally responsive use of the ASQ-TRAK tool. 

Associate Professor Anita D’Aprano commenced her research in the Northern Territory in 2009, where she led the adaptation of the mainstream Ages and Stages Questionnaire for use in the Aboriginal context. This led to the co-creation of the ASQ-TRAK – the first culturally adapted developmental screening tool for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Returning to the University of Melbourne, this program of work has expanded, and the STRONG kids, STRONG future team continues to distribute the ASQ-TRAK and provide training nationally in the culturally responsive use of the tool.  The team works in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, communities and organisations to research, develop and implement culturally responsive tools that promote developmental outcomes for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.  The current research activities are focusing on the validation of another developmental tool, the ASQ-STEPS.