Review of the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence, Second Edition (WASI-II)

The Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence, Second Edition (WASI-II; Wechsler, 2011), published by Pearson, is a newly updated abbreviated measure of cognitive intelligence designed for individuals 6 to 90 years of age. Primarily used in clinical, psychoeducational, and research settings, the WASI-II was developed to quickly and accurately estimate cognitive intelligence when administration of a full battery is not feasible or necessary. The WASI-II is classified as a Level C measure, and can be administered and interpreted by individuals with a doctorate degree in psychology or a related discipline. Although the Examiner’s Manual states that the WASI-II can be administered by individuals with a bachelor’s degree under appropriate supervision due to the ease of administration, it is important to note that ideally the same person would administer and interpret the results of the measure, preferably an individual with appropriate training and certification (e.g., an individual with master’s or doctoral training). Administration time is approximately 30 min for the four-subtest form or 15 min for the two-subtest form. The WASI-II kit includes an Examiner’s Manual, 25 Record Forms, Stimulus Book, and nine red and white Block Design cubes. The manual is well laid out, beginning with a detailed history of the WASI (Wechsler, 1999) and development of the WASI-II, an overview of the WASI-II tasks, details about the administration and scoring of the measure, interpretation of results, and psychometric properties.