A study of the relation between conservation tasks and I.Q. scores

摘要

This study attempts to determine whether a relationship exists between conservation ability and intelligence, and whether because of such relationship a combined test of several conservation measures can be used to screen incoming first graders. It was hypothesized that the ability to conserve is positively correlated with IQ, MA, and CA. Scores on the CAK-Conservation by Goldschmid and Bentler, based on Piaget's theories of cognitive development, were used as measures of conservation ability. MA and IQ scores were obtained by administering the WISC. WPPSI, or Binet LM. CA was obtained from school records or from parents.;The results suggest that the accepted practice of using CA as the main criterion for entrance into first grade must be questioned. The CAK-Conservation involves components of readiness factors and includes the integration of those factors with logical thought. Further research is required to determine whether non conservers in the target age group show educational weaknesses at the end of second grade. If deficit areas exist, research is required to determine if CAK-Conservation results reveal specific aspects of readiness deficits. Conversely, research is required to identify which academic strengths are predicted by early competence on the CAK-Conservation. Two additional areas of future research lie in the determination of what environmental factors are related to conservation ability and in the isolation of specific operations and the possibility of accelerating the acquisition of those operations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).