The Temporal Stability of the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Cognitive Ability for Elementary-Aged Learning-Disabled Children

Abstract

The temporal stability of the Woodcock-Johnson Full Scale Cognitive Index and the Verbal, Reasoning, Perceptual Speed, Memory, Oral Language, and Broad Reasoning cluster scales were investigated. A sample of 57 elementary-aged learning-disabled children were studied. Results indicated that only the Full Scale Index and the Verbal and Oral Language cluster scales demonstrated adequate stability over a six-month interval. That is, they exceeded the .80 standard for screening instruments. None of the coefficients exceeded the .90 standard suggested for use for major educational decisions. Small but statistically significant gains in mean standard score performance occurred for all measures from one test administration to another. Implications and direction for subsequent research were presented.

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