A dyscalculia test is an important part of the diagnosis of dyscalculia. The basis are calculation tests and tests for intelligence determination. Among other things, a significant discrepancy between intelligence and computing power must exist in order to be able to make the diagnosis dyscalculia. The test results can also be used for follow-up. Read all important information about dyscalculia testing here!
Why do you need a dyscalculia test?
A dyscalculia test is used to pinpoint computational difficulties. For this purpose, a number of complex test procedures (“test batteries”) were developed and validated. They are not always done in writing, but sometimes also as structured interviews – also with parents.
Overall, there is a wide range of age and educational computational weaknesses. This is very important, because only then can the performance of a child be assessed on the basis of the best possible comparison group. Unfortunately, there is not a well-validated dyscalculia test available for all ages and school types that allows for a safe diagnosis.
There are a number of online tests on the internet. However, dyscalculia testing is very complex and should be left to specialists. Only then can you get a correct evaluation.
Dyscalculia – the calculation test
In order to objectify the mathematical dysfunction and to evaluate the performance in various sub-areas of mathematical thinking, age- and education-specific computational tests are carried out. They not only capture the subject matter but also ask for general mathematical (basic) skills. Accordingly, a distinction is made between curriculum-based and criteria-based testing procedures. Examples are Heidelberg Computing Test, DEMAT, BADYS, BASI MATH, ZAREKI-K, TEDI-MATH, Playful Dyscalculia Tests and others. Which dyscalculia test is most suitable in a particular case is decided by the supervising specialist. He will also observe the child in solving the tasks in order to understand his thinking and solution mechanisms.
With such a calculus weakness test, the weaknesses and strengths of the child can be identified. The results can be used specifically for individual treatment. Many of these dyscalculia tests can also be used to monitor and record the course of therapy.
Dyscalculia – the IQ test
If dyscalculia is suspected, a complete IQ test must be performed. By definition, the IQ of 100 is the average achieved by the peer group. If a child achieves an IQ below 100, this is worse than the average. For the diagnosis of dyscalculia, at least an intelligence quotient of 70 should be achieved, otherwise the mathematical dysfunction can be explained by a low intelligence.
Common intelligence tests include the Wechsler Intelligence Test (WI), the Hamburg Changer Intelligence Test (HAWIK), the Kaufmann Assessment Battery for children and the Intelligenztest Structure Test. These tests not only examine the overall IQ, but differentiate between so-called partial services. This makes it possible to differentiate between different competencies such as speech understanding or working memory.
Dyscalculia – more tests
There are a variety of other tests that can be used to test for additional features such as attention, motivation, or mental health. These tests are important because dyscalculia often occurs along with attention deficit syndromes or reading-spelling weaknesses. The test selection will be made by the supervising specialist.
Other building blocks of dyscalculia diagnostics
One Dyscalculia test It is not enough to determine if a child has a calculation problem or not. Other building blocks of dyscalculia diagnostics include a diagnostic interview with child and parents, a report from the school, and a physical exam.