Can Evolving Techniques Better Measure Cognitive Change?

The Learning Potential Assessment Device (LPAD) is presented as an approach to the production and measurement of cognitive change. The assessment of cognitive change requires a means of conceptualizing the initial and end states as well as the nature of the change. The LPAD model and cognitive map provide this means. Four changes from traditional psychometric approaches are necessary: shift from product to process orientation and modification of test structure, test situation, and interpretation of results. The components of the cognitive map (content, modality, operation, phase, level of complexity, and level of efficiency) provide the conceptual model for production and measurement of cognitive change. The paper presents 3 empirical studies illustrating how the LPAD may be applied in solving practical problems with important educational and social implications.