Dichotic Word Test: Psychometric Properties Cover Image

Dihotički test riječi: Metrijska svojstva
Dichotic Word Test: Psychometric Properties

Author(s): Branko Nikolić, Mladen Heđever, Andrea Fabijanović
Subject(s): Education
Published by: Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Edukacijsko-rehabilitacijski fakultet
Keywords: auditory processing disorders; Dichotic Words Test; psychometric properties; the lower grades pupils of primary school; language and speech disorders

Summary/Abstract: The study presents the psychometric properties of Dichotic Words Test (DWT) which are calculated on a sample of the first four grades of elementary school. The test is constructed as part of a battery of tests for the detection of auditory processing disorders. The test presents a binaural 15 pairs of monosyllabic different words at the same time, so that one word is heard in one ear and, simultaneously, the second in the other ear. Pupils are asked to repeat both words, but in specific order. This test can evaluate the function of neurological connections of the auditory system and the lower results may indicate a delayed development and maturation of the central nervous system, neurological problems and even damage to the auditory pathways in the CNS. The study included 436 pupils of the first four grades of primary school, age range from 6.5 years to 11.5 years. Basic statistical indicators have been calculated and normality of distribution of frequencies was tested by Kolmogorov-Smirnov method. The latent structure of the DWT was performed under the component factor analysis model. Featured are two equally powerful factors: the first is the Factor of Left Ear Perception, and second is the Factor of Right Ear Perception. Based on the factor analysis of the DWT can be concluded that the instrument is valid and meets the criteria of application for practical purposes. Psychometric properties of the DWT are very good. Reliability were calculated based on the Guttman-Nicewander measure of reliability, Cronbach-Kaiser-Caffrey (α) reliability measure and the Spearman-Brown-Kuder-Richardson-Cronbach reliability assessment. Since all three measures of reliability greater than 0.875 may be proposed to be listed without restriction DWT can be used as an instrument for testing auditory processing for pupils in primary schools.

  • Issue Year: 49/2013
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 49-64
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Croatian