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Psychological Corp. (1999). Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence. San Antonio, TX: Author.
Complete kit (includes Manual, Stimulus Booklet, 25 Record Forms, and a set of 9 blocks in a canvas bag): $235.00.
PURPOSE AND NATURE OF THE TEST
The Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (WASI) is an individually administered intelligence test that was introduced in 1999. It is a screening instrument intended to he given to individuals from the ages of 6 to 89 years. The WASI consists of four subtests: Vocabulary, Block Design, Similarities, and Matrix Reasoning. The Vocabulary subtest consists of 4 picture items and 38 word items. In the Block Design subtest the examinee uses blocks to produce a series of up to 13 two-color designs. There is a time limit for each design. In the Similarities Subtest the examinee has to either match pictures (Items 1-4) or state how two common objects or concepts are alike (Items 5-26). In the Matrix Reasoning subtest there are four types of nonverbal reasoning items: pattern completion, classification, analogy, and serial reasoning. In these tasks a portion of the item is missing; the examinee completes the item by saying which of the response options is correct.
Assessment clinicians in various disciplines could often benefit from a fast and reliable device to assess the major cognitive components of an individual. This is becoming increasingly important in an era of managed-care computerized case management systems. The development of the WASI is propitious because the time and financial constraints on practitioners will continue to increase. The WASI can also be viewed as a screening device; more comprehensive evaluation of the individual's cognitive sphere may occur at a later date.
Historically, assessment clinicians of various disciplines have tried a variety of means to quickly and accurately assess the cognitive functioning of an individual. These methods often included various subtests of one of the versions of the Wechsler intelligence scale. These methods, although creative and having some psychometric basis, lacked the comprehensive approach that resulted from...