The Bilingual Is Not Two Monolinguals of Same Age: Normative Testing Implications for Multilinguals

• DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence12010003
• Publication Date: 2023-12-31T11:00:21Z
• Authors: Samuel O. Ortiz; Sarah K. Cehelyk
• Keywords: Comparability; Affect

A fundamental concept in psychological and intelligence testing involves the assumption of comparability which performance on a test is compared to normative standard derived from prior individuals who are comparable examinee. When evaluating cognitive abilities, primary variable used for establishing and, turn, validity age, given that intellectual abilities develop largely as function general physical growth neuromaturation. an individual has been raised only language test, development effectively controlled by age. For example, when measuring vocabulary, 12-year-old will be other 12-year-olds, all whom have learning approximately 12 years—hence, they remain comparable. The same cannot said or different partly with test. In such cases, may at some point shortly after birth, might just begun week ago. Their respective thus varies considerably, it can no longer assumed this respect others simply because Psychologists noted early differences could affect performance, but was viewed mostly issue regarding basic comprehension. Early efforts were made address issue, typically involved simplification instructions reliance nonverbal methods administration measurement. Other procedures followed included working around via modifications alterations (e.g., use interpreter), dominant language, tests translated into languages. None these approaches, however, succeeded fairness multilinguals, primarily fail recognize difference not development, much like cultural acquisition acculturative knowledge. Current research demonstrates multilinguals moderated amount exposure Moreover, specifically receptive accounts more variance than age any variable. There further evidence influence differential examined controlled, historical attributions race-based disappear. Advances rest true peer comparisons control within among multilinguals. BESA Ortiz PVAT two examples where norms created both degree language(s) Together, provide blueprint future construction wherein creation possible done correctly, exhibits significant equalizing across diverse groups, irrespective racial/ethnic background development. convincingly deliberate careful attention exist, between monolinguals also themselves, developed support claims fact exclusively culture