Assessing psychometric properties of a measure of Hong Kong kindergarten children’s science and engineering knowledge

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 2:15 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Measurement and Assessment in Early Childhood

Abstract

Science and engineering knowledge is fundamental for young children’s learning and development. However, there is a lack of reliable and valid assessment tools. The CIRCLE Progress Monitoring System: Science & Engineering (CIRCLE) has been developed to assess kindergarteners’ understanding of four core disciplinary ideas. This validation study evaluated its psychometric properties within Hong Kong kindergartens, involving 886 children aged 3 to 6 from 49 kindergartens. Findings revealed that CIRCLE is a valid assessment tool in this context, though modifications are necessary to mitigate the ceiling effect observed. Overall, the study highlights the potential to adapt and enhance assessment measures for diverse cultural settings to better evaluate young children’s science and engineering knowledge.

Authors

• Xuanyi Wu, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

• Brad Chan, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

• Esther Chong, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

• Ada Lee, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

• Ruoyu Wen, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

• Delia Ng, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education