Commentary in Response to Braden

Abstract

Braden (this issue) criticizes a recent report by Courtney, Hayes, Couch, and Frick (1984) on administration of the WISC-R Performance Scale to hearing impaired (HI) children with pantomimed instruction. A review of Braden's comments indicates that he neither accurately represents the intent of the study nor accurately represents the conclusions stated in the report. Furthermore, Braden addresses the issue as though all HI children can be most appropriately evaluated through translation to manual communication, a position that is not supported by analysis of communication modes in use with HI children. Clarification of conclusions by Courtney et al., support for their interpretation of possible sampling procedure effects, and discussion of the need for alternative test administration procedures (e.g., pantomine) are presented.