[Ohiogift] Cognitive Testing for ESL Students

[Colleen Boyle, PhD]

The NNAT meets the reliability and validity requirements set forth by ODE for use for gifted ID. So, that should not be a concern. Peer-reviewed research is mixed when it comes to the NNAT or non-verbal tests. But, given the options, they have been effective in my personal experience. My district uses the NNAT for whole grade screening in 2nd grade and have been pleased with the outcomes. We also use the CogAT for grade 5 screening and use the Non-Verbal/Quantitative composite for English learners. It has allowed us to pick up a few students, but not as many as the NNAT. 

What we have also found is that the results are questioned when individuals try to compete gifted English Learners to the stereotypes of what they think a gifted child should be like - which is usually rooted in an English-speaking culture. So, if the plan is to identify the students and then place them in a program that is not culturally sensitive, you will encounter pushback and concerns that the scores are invalid. You will want to pair the use of the NNAT (or the test you choose) with professional development for teachers - including your GT staff - about the type of thinking assessed by the test and how to understand the outcomes along with nature of and needs of gifted English learners (including cultural awareness specific to the cultures represented in your community). 

Colleen Boyle

> On Oct 29, 2018, at 3:03 PM, Angie Horvath via Ohiogift <ohiogift at lists.osu.edu> wrote:
> 
> Hello,
> We have recently had a lot of Spanish speaking students move into our district.  I would like to provide superior cognitive screening for these students.  Does anyone have an ESL nonverbal test that they have used that they really like?  In addition, is there one you have used that you feel is not as valid?
> We own the NNAT (Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test).  Any feedback on the validity of the scores obtained from the use of this test would be appreciated.
> Thanks so much,
> Angie 
> 
> Angie Horvath
> 
> Coordinator of Gifted Services
> 
> Bellefontaine City Schools
> 
> 937-651-3480
> 
> horvath at bcs-k12.org
> 
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