An Examination of Learning Proficiency Differences in Low and Middle Ses Children

Abstract

The results of research investigating differences in matrix completion abilities between low-SES and middle-SES children have been inconsistent. This study provided a framework in which several unresolved issues could be examined. Item type, order of presentation, training modes, and developmental level were varied in two SES groups in an attempt to clarify previous research findings. The subjects were 288 individually tested children. SES level was determined by the Hollingshead and Redlich (1958) scale while developmental level was represented by first, third, and fifth grade levels. Training consisted of maximal prompt, correctness-of-response feedback, and a no-training-control condition. Subject responded to double classification and enclosure matrix completion item types until a criterion performance was obtained, and were then shown 11 transfer items of each type. The results revealed significant SES, grade, and training main effects. Generally, middle-SES and older subjects were able to learn more efficiently and transfer more effectively than their counterparts. SES and training interacted with item type and order of presentation which indicated differential facilitative effects across SES levels. A major finding was the absence of a significant SES X grade interaction. This result supports a developmental lag as opposed to Level I Level II interpretation.