Introduction to methods of assessment

Question 1

types of validity

Answer 1

construct-related
content-related
criterion-related

Question 2

What is the definition of assessment?

Answer 2

Specific tools or instruments that are used during the evaluation process

Question 3

what are the basic strategies for conducting an effective interview?

Answer 3

• Clarify purpose
• Sensitive to care giver’s needs
• Promote interaction by using open ended questions
• Attempt to understand family dynamics
• Plan where to take notes
• Remain positive and realistic
• Be flexible and respond to questions
• Effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills
• Avoid therapy jargon and explain technical terms

Question 4

define evaluation

Answer 4

The process of obtaining and interpreting data necessary for intervention. This includes planning for and documenting the evaluation process and results

Question 5

differentiate between standardized and non-standardized tests

Answer 5

Standardized:
- uniform administration and marking procedures
- developed for specific populations
- HPCSA list for tests used by OTs
Non-standardized
- observations and checklists
- no prescribed manner for administration

Question 6

what are the ‘Do’s’ when coming to assessments?

Answer 6

• use standardized tests where possible

- administrate and mark as prescribed

Question 7

what should you consider when choosing an assessment?

Answer 7

• purpose
• theoretical frame of reference
• clinical utility
• technical considerations
• fairness
• external reviews
• strengths and weaknesses of tests

Question 8

what needs to be considered when structuring an assessment?

Answer 8

Preparation
- decide on assessment methods and instruments
- prepare instructions thoroughly
- pack out needed items and ensure all that is needed is there
-structure the area that will be used for assessment
presentation
- give instructions clearly
- use a neutral tone of voice
Handling
- only necessary physical handling
avoid too much feedback during assessment
Positioning
- respect client’s dignity and privacy at all times
- environment must be conducive to optimal performance
- position yourself to optimize opportunity for observations

Question 9

types of reliability

Answer 9

• test-retest
• inter-rated
• standard error of measurement (SEM)

Question 10

HOW TO INTERPRET RESULTS IN CONTEXT

Answer 10

• look for clusters of results
• standardization sample of test comparison to context of client
• variables
• functional difficulty should always be brought into context of difficulties identified through assessment

Question 11

what is the purpose of an evaluation?

Answer 11

1. decide whether further treatment is necessary
2. diagnostic process/ eligible for OT
3. assist in the OT process
4. develop intervention plan
5. evaluate progress in therapy
6. evaluate efficacy of intervention service/ describe patterns of development/ describe functional problems

Question 12

characteristics of standardized tests

Answer 12

validity and reliability

Question 13

what should be considered when it comes to referrals

Answer 13

• where referral comes from
• reasons for referral
• purpose of assessment
• previous assessments or information gathered

Question 14

what are the 3 methods of assessment?

Answer 14

1. asking questions
2. observing
3. testing

Question 15

what are some ‘don’ts’ when coming to assessments

Answer 15

• make up your own test
• use parts of tests
• give any commentary before hand
• use tests you are not trained in using
• force someone to do a test

Question 16

types of scoring for standardized tests

Answer 16

z-scores
percentile scores
age-equivalent scores

Question 17

ethical considerations

Answer 17

• training
• guidelines of professional boards
• copyright
• fairness
• financial implications
• consideration in the communication of assessment results

Question 18

name and explain the types of standardized tests

Answer 18

norm-referenced
- large standardization group
- average scores
- child’s scores are compared to scores of the normative sample
criterion referenced
- information on child’s performance on task
- compares performance to criterion
- administration and scoring may or may not be standardized
- criterion for rating performance provided

Question 19

list behavioural management strategies

Answer 19

• be prepared
• sensitive to needs
• purposeful
• testing room
• build rapport before physically handling or interacting
• use meaningful, positive reinforcement
• begin and end with easy items
• watch complexity of your language
• be organized
• try to develop reciprocal interactions with the child

Question 20

name and explain methods of OT assessments

Answer 20

standardized assessments
- uniform administration and marking procedures
ecological assessments
- examination and recording of physical, social and psychological features of a child’s developmental context
- concerned with interaction between child and their physical and social environments
skilled observation
- competencies required to conduct skilled observations:
1. don’t interfere with the natural course of events
2. pat attention to physical and social features that support/ limit child’s performance
3. record child’s behaviour in observable and neutral terms
interviews
- important outcome is an accurate, meaningful exchange of information between professional and client
- can provide opportunity to build rapport between OT and client
inventories and scales
- rating scales may rate quality, degree or frequency of behaviour
arena assessments
- uses transdisciplinary approach that allows child and primary care giver to interact with 1 professional throughout evaluation session while other observe and on occasion directly test child/ interview care giver

Question 21

what does the evaluation process entail?

Answer 21

1. referral
2. interview
3. assessment
4. interpretation
5. report writing