Construction and Validation of Three Noncognitive Measures for K–2 Students

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: Parental Factors and Students' Reading Attitude

Abstract

Recent researchers have shown that social and emotional learning (SEL) can help address some challenges we face regarding education and workforce readiness, especially for black, brown, and low-income students. However, measurement of SEL skills continues to be a challenge, especially for K–2 students. In this study, we developed self-report instruments targeting three areas of SEL skills including Engagement, Rigorous Expectations, and School Climate for K–2 students (n = 1,473), and we analyzed their associations with standardized math and reading growth scores. We found that the three non-cognitive measures have strong psychometric properties as the fit indices for these measures were above the most conservative criteria. Further, the SEL measures were found to be associated with mathematics and reading achievement.

Authors

• Julio Caesar, Bloomington Public Schools

• Rik Lamm, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

• Michael C. Rodriguez, University of Minnesota

• Qian Zhao, University of Minnesota

• David J. Heistad, Bloomington Public Schools