A comprehensive re-evaluation of the psychometric properties of the Kaufman survey of early academic and language skills in Turkish children aged 48, 72 months: multidimensional structure, measurement invariance, and validity evidence
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BackgroundThe assessment of early academic and language skills across different cultural contexts requires robust psychometric validation. Although the Kaufman Survey of Early Academic and Language Skills (K-SEALS) has been adapted into Turkish, there is a need to re-evaluate its psychometric…
BackgroundThe assessment of early academic and language skills across different cultural contexts requires robust psychometric validation. Although the Kaufman Survey of Early Academic and Language Skills (K-SEALS) has been adapted into Turkish, there is a need to re-evaluate its psychometric properties using contemporary analytical approaches.MethodsThis study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Turkish version of K-SEALS in a sample of 385 children aged 48, 72 months attending preschool institutions in Konya, Turkey. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using Diagonally Weighted Least Squares (DWLS) estimation was conducted to test the multidimensional structure of the scale. Measurement invariance across gender was examined using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis, whereas developmental sensitivity was evaluated by examining the relationships between chronological age and subtest scores. Convergent and discriminant validity analyses were also performed. Reliability was assessed using internal consistency and test, retest methods.ResultsThe findings supported the theoretically proposed multidimensional structure of the scale, with model fit indices within acceptable ranges. Measurement invariance across gender was established, indicating structural equivalence. Convergent and discriminant validity analyses confirmed that the K-SEALS dimensions represent related but distinct constructs. Reliability results demonstrated strong internal consistency and temporal stability. High inter-factor correlations suggested that early academic and language skills function as an integrated developmental system.ConclusionThe results provide further psychometric evidence for the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of K-SEALS. The findings provide additional evidence for the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of K-SEALS.