Differential Ability Scales (DAS-II)

Currently in its 2nd edition, the Differential Ability Scales (DAS-II) provide insight into the cognitive abilities children have when learning. The scores help in deciding how intervention could enhance a child’s learning. It is suitable for children across a range of developmental levels. There are two versions of the DAS-II, Early Years (for those between 2 years 6 months and 6 years 11 months) and School Age.

Features of the DAS-II

The current iteration of the DAS has 20 cognitive subtests, helpful in evaluating strengths and weaknesses in a range of learning processes.

Ψ Core subtests: shed light on one’s ability in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and spatial abilities
Ψ Diagnostic subtests: measure processes like memory, processing speed and early school learning abilities

Unlike core subtests, diagnostic subtests do not contribute to the composite score produced at the end of the test (the General Conceptual Ability Score). However, the processes highlighted in the diagnostic subtests are important in learning and can reveal potential difficulties that a child might face.

Advantages of the DAS-II

Given the wide range of learning processes that DAS-II focuses on, it can offer a comprehensive outlook of a child’s strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning. This can help flag up potential conditions, such as intellectual disability, learning disabilities or even giftedness. This can facilitate intervention, allowing clinicians to be more aware of certain areas to concentrate on in therapy. In addition, the DAS-II also supports a response-to-intervention (RTI) approach, where ability scores can be compared over time to see if intervention is effective.