Throughout the months of October and November 2024, I have developed a scoping review protocol for conducting the review entitled The role of multimodality in dynamic assessment of language in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: a scoping review. This literature review will provide a theoretical foundation on how multimodality (e.g., the use of gestures) has been considered in dynamic language assessment across its different dimensions: phonology, lexicon, semantics, morphosyntax, pragmatics, and narrative.

For this purpose, both my academic supervisor, Dr. Alfonso Igualada, and other collaborators from UOC, Dr. Sergi Fábregues, as well as external collaborators, Dr. Eva Murillo (UAM), have provided their support and guidance throughout the development of the document.

The development and publication of the scoping review protocol has been a highly enriching learning experience, allowing me to deepen my understanding of systematic review methodologies, improve my research planning skills, and gain insights into the principles of open science and academic collaboration.

Currently, the review team consists of myself as the principal investigator and Pedro Ruíz Curcó, a Speech and Language Therapy undergraduate student at UOC. The timeline proposed in the protocol is being followed, and the full-text screening of the reports identified in the search has just been completed.

In line with open science principles, the protocol is publicated and  freely available  on OSF since November 12th, 2024: https://osf.io/4v25q/?view_only=10141ca5174249fba8d5228c05dbdab1

Date:  January 9, 2025

Place: Online bu MS Teams platform. An activity of the ECREA community

In January 2025, I attended a research seminar titled “How to Satisfy Reviewer2: This seminar provided valuable insights into the publication process and offered practical strategies to enhance the likelihood of getting research accepted. The seminar covered several key points, including understanding the normalcy of rejection, the importance of knowing your target journal, ensuring the research addresses significant questions, techniques to engage the reader, focusing on writing a cohesive article, and leveraging collective intelligence.

Competences:

Ability to contribute to expanding the frontiers of knowledge through original research.

Ability to communicate with the academic and scientific community and with society in general about their fields of knowledge in the modes and languages ​​commonly used in the international scientific community.

Ability to promote, in academic and professional contexts, scientific, technological, social, artistic or cultural progress within a knowledge-based society.

Capacity for criticism and intellectual defense of solutions.

Reflection on the Learning Undertaken:

Attending this seminar has equipped me with practical tools to improve my research manuscripts. I learned that rejection is a common part of the journey and should be viewed as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Understanding the specific requirements and preferences of target journals is crucial for tailoring submissions effectively.

The seminar emphasized the importance of addressing the “So What?” question, ensuring that my research contributes meaningfully to the field. I also gained valuable techniques for capturing and maintaining the reader’s interest, which is essential for effective communication of research findings. Focusing on writing a cohesive and well-structured article, rather than trying to cover too many topics, was another key takeaway.

Finally, the concept of using collective intelligence highlighted the value of seeking feedback from colleagues and peers to enhance the quality of my manuscripts. Overall, this seminar has provided me with a comprehensive framework to navigate the publication process more effectively and increase the chances of my research being accepted.