Development of an Integrated Computer-Based Assessment System for Early Childhood Programs

Deborah E. Bennett, Ph.D.
Helen H. Arvidson, Ph.D.
Karen Giorgetti, M.S.

Purdue University

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a computer-based assessment system for children in early childhood programs, The Indiana Assessment System of Educational Proficiencies: Early Childhood (IASEP: EC). Skills in five developmental domains, cognitive, communication, social, sensory motor, and self-help were selected and content validated using a representative stakeholder and expert panel process. Resulting indicators were included in assessment software and piloted with 40 teachers and 128 children ages 3 ½ to 6 ½ . Core ratings were analyzed yielding four separate factors: language development, social development, sensory motor development, and self-help skills. The rotated factor structure was largely consistent with the initial domain structure. Correlations of IASEP: EC domain ratings with the Speed DIAL and Picture Naming Task suggest a strong positive relationship between the developmental constructs measured by each. Initial results would lend support for the reliability and validity of the IASEP: EC rating system. Implications for using teacher ratings with portfolio evidence as a means of providing comprehensive documentation of child growth are discussed.

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