Computer adaptive test performance in children with and without disabilities: prospective field study of the PEDI-CAT

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the discriminant validity, test–retest reliability, administration time and acceptability of the pediatric evaluation of disability inventory computer adaptive test (PEDI-CAT). Methods: A sample of 102 parents of children 3 through 20 years of age with (n = 50) and without (n = 52) disabilities was recruited for this prospective field study. A sub-sample (n = 25) also completed the PEDI-CAT a second time within one month. Parents completed 15 items in each of the four PEDI-CAT domains (daily activities, mobility, social/cognitive, responsibility) using a laptop computer. Following completion, parents answered a four-question user evaluation survey. Results: PEDI-CAT scores based on parent responses differentiated between groups of children with and without disabilities in all four domains. Test–retest reliability estimates were high (ICC = 0.96–0.99) for all four domains. The mean time to complete 60 items for the full sample (n = 102) was 12.66 minutes (SD = 4.47). Parents reported favorable reactions to the PEDI-CAT. Conclusions: The PEDI-CAT offers a valid and reliable assessment acceptable to parents.

Implications for rehabilitation

• The pediatric evaluation of disability inventory computer adaptive test (PEDI-CAT) is a new measure for infants, children and youth from birth through 20 years of age in the functional areas of daily activities, mobility, social/cognitive and responsibility.

• PEDI-CAT scores based on parent responses differentiated functional skills between groups of children with and without disabilities in all four domains.

• The PEDI-CAT has high test–retest reliability and could be completed in about 12 minutes.

• Parent respondents indicated they provided meaningful information about their child with the PEDI-CAT.

Keywords::

• computer adaptive test
• PEDI
• reliability
• validity

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the parents who participated in this study and the clinical staff who assisted with recruitment.

Declaration of interest: This work was supported by NIH/NICHD/NCMRR grants R42HD052318 (STTR Phase II award) and K02 HD45354-01 (an Independent Scientist Award to Dr. Haley) and Dr. Haley and Mr. Moed own founders stock in CREcare, LLC, which distributes the PEDI-CAT products.