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The autism survey: an evaluation of reliability and validity
D G Campbell1, N C Reichle, M E Van Bourgondien
1Division TEACCH, Medical School Wing E, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7180, USA.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|December 1, 1996
Summary
The Autism Survey reliably measures knowledge about autism, demonstrating stability and internal consistency over time. This validated instrument is suitable for assessing understanding of autism spectrum disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychometrics
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
- Educational Assessment
Background:
- Assessing knowledge about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for effective education and support.
- Existing instruments may require validation for specific populations or contexts.
- The Autism Survey was developed to gauge understanding of ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Autism Survey.
- To determine the reliability and validity of the Autism Survey for assessing knowledge of autism.
Main Methods:
- The Autism Survey was administered to subjects at a training conference and again one month later.
- Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to assess the survey's factor structure.
- Reliability (test-retest, internal consistency) and validity were examined.
Main Results:
- Confirmatory factor analysis supported a single-factor structure for the Autism Survey.
- The survey demonstrated good test-retest reliability, indicating stability over time.
- Internal consistency of the total score was adequate, with minor item revisions suggested.
Conclusions:
- The Autism Survey is a psychometrically sound instrument for measuring knowledge about autism.
- The findings support the reliability and validity of the Autism Survey for its intended purpose.
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