psy5pax psych assessment

PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

PSY5PAX

2015

Credit points: 15

Subject outline

This subject provides an introduction to assessment, integrating the scientist-practitioner roles of the professional psychologist. The focus is on concepts and techniques that are foundations for other subjects in the course. The assessment process, emphasising a problem-solving orientation, is examined. Psychometric theory, and its relationship to testing, is reviewed. Principles of assessment interviewing are outlined. The contribution of tests and testing to this process is considered in detail. Techniques of test administration and interpretation, with a particular emphasis on the Wechsler Intelligence Scales, are explored. Communication of psychological assessment outcomes, particularly through report writing, is given close attention. Lectures and seminar presentations will be augmented through candidates# self-directed experiential activities.

SchoolSchool of Psychology & Public Health

Credit points15

Subject Co-ordinatorGlynda Kinsella

Available to Study Abroad StudentsNo

Subject year levelYear Level 5 - Masters

Exchange StudentsNo

Subject particulars

Subject rules

PrerequisitesN/A

Co-requisitesN/A

Incompatible subjectsN/A

Equivalent subjectsN/A

Special conditionsN/A

Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes

01. Developed knowledge of the principles and theoretical background of psychological assessment with an understanding of issues relating to (i) reliability and validity, (ii) development and aging, and (iii) culture.

Activities:
Participation in lecture and tutorial presentations throughout the sereis and underatking the reading from the associated references

02. Ability to undertake a preliminary interview and underatke a structured history as the preliminary component of the assessment.

Activities:
Active participation in tutorial role plays

03. Developed ability to administer psychological tests taking into account issues of validity & reliability, and contextual issues related to development and aging, and cultural diversity

Activities:
Administration of the Weschler batteries and various selected psychological tests to professional standard; videotaped testing sessions; written test reports. Active participation in lectures/seminars on issues related to development and aging, and cultural diversity

04. Developed ability to write assessment reports to a professional standard and suitable for different referral agencies or contexts

Activities:
Participation in seminars and tutorials on communication and report writing; written assignments and reports

05. Increased understanding about how to communicate effectively to the client, family or refereral agencies and other psychologists about the psychological assessment; and, understanding about how to incorporate the assessment results into treatment planning.

Activities:
Participation in seminars and tutorials on communication and report writing; written assigments and reports

Subject options

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Start date between: and    Key dates

Melbourne, 2015, Semester 1, Day

Overview

Online enrolmentYes

Maximum enrolment sizeN/A

Enrolment information

Subject Instance Co-ordinatorGlynda Kinsella

Class requirements

LectureWeek: 10 - 22
One 2.0 hours lecture per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.

TutorialWeek: 10 - 22
One 1.0 hours tutorial per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.

Assessments

Assessment elementComments%ILO*
Short multiple-choice take-home testsShort multiple-choice take-home tests provided at the end of each lecture, and submitted to the lecturer for marking prior to the next lecture.3001, 02, 03, 04
a 20 minute videoed assessmentAchievement of professional competence in administering selected Wechsler batteries and other psychological tests as determined through a videoed assessment - 20 minutes3001, 02, 03, 04
A psychological assessment report - 1500 words3001, 02, 03, 04
A written test report - 500 words1001, 02, 03, 04