Content range and precision of a computer adaptive test of upper extremity function for children with cerebral palsy

This article reports on the content range and measurement precision of an upper extremity (UE) computer adaptive testing (CAT) platform of physical function in children with cerebral palsy. Upper extremity items representing skills of all abilities were administered to 305 parents. These responses were compared with two traditional standardized measures: Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument and Functional Independence Measure for Children. The UE CAT correlated strongly with the upper extremity component of these measures and had greater precision when describing individual functional ability. The UE item bank has wider range with items populating the lower end of the ability spectrum. This new UE item bank and CAT have the capability to quickly assess children of all ages and abilities with good precision and, most importantly, with items that are meaningful and appropriate for their age and level of physical function.