FOCUS test: A new, computer-based assessment for 3–8-year-old children

Abstract

The paper describes the FOCUS (Finding Out Children’s Unique Strengths) test, a new, computer-based assessment that measures mastery motivation and executive functions as well as alphabet and number recognition among 3–8-year-old children. Mastery motivation and executive functions are not only important components of approaches to learning (ATL), but also play a key role in success at school. The paper reviews the theoretical background of the FOCUS test, its structure and subtests. Results from pilot testing are also discussed. An initial face-to-face pilot study involved 12 preschool children. During the second pilot testing, the new, computer-based assessment was administered to 247 children aged 3-8 years. Reliability and validity were adequate. Besides the online version, an offline mobile application was also created. Both the web-based version and the mobile application are available in English and Hungarian. Finally, the paper briefly describes recent revisions of the test and its implications for future research.