Navajo Adolescents Scores on a Primary Language Questionnaire, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) and the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (CTBS): A Correlational Study

Abstract

One hundred twenty-four Navajo 14, 15, and 16 year-old regular classroom adolescents from schools in Arizona and New Mexico were administered three instruments: a Primary Language Questionnaire, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) and the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills (CTBS). Correlations between the RSPM scores and CTBS achievement levels ranged from the upper .30's to the upper .40's, and all were significant at the .01 level. Correlational data indicated that the agreement between RSPM and CTBS scores was higher for female than for male students. Norms were established for this sample of Navajo adolescents on the Raven. Interpretations of the findings include implications for educators and psychometricians working with Navajo adolescents. Also included is a discussion of these findings as they relate to cultural sensitivity in testing, and research questions for future exploration.