Reliability and Validity of the Multidimensional Scale of Life Skills in Late Childhood

Abstract

This study investigated the reliability and validity of the Multidimensional Scale of Life Skills in Late Childhood, an instrument designed to measure a concept similar to "zest for living" in late childhood. A total of 1,888 elementary school students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades residing in urban and suburban areas as well as in remote islands of 3 prefectures (Okinawa, Kagoshima, and Nagasaki) were surveyed. On the basis of our analysis, 24 items and seven factors were extracted. These factors are problem-solving/synthesis, relationship with friends, personal manners, decision-making and future planning, self- OPEN ACCESSEduc. Sci. 2013, 3 122 learning, collecting and using information, and leadership. Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients were computed for each subscale and ranged from 0.71 to 0.87. Test-retest reliability coefficient values ranged from 0.68 to 0.79. To examine the construct validity of the scales, a goodness-of-fit model was determined by confirmatory factor analysis, and satisfactory values were found (GFI = 0.952, AGFI = 0.937, CFI = 0.966, RMSEA = 0.016). The validity of the goodness-of-fit model and the reliability of the scales indicate that the Multidimensional Scale of Life Skills in Late Childhood is an effective assessment tool.

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“…We found this scale to be not extensive enough even though the scale showed good internal and interrater reliability and discriminative validity between advantaged and disadvantaged children. Kobayashi, Gushiken et al (2013) developed and implemented the Multidimensional Scale of Life Skills in Late Childhood (MSLSLC) with 1,888 Japanese children in the 4th through 6th grades, consisting of 60 items that were later reduced to 24. This was done through exploratory factor analysis.…”

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