psy5pax psychological assessment
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
PSY5PAX
2019
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
This subject provides in-depth training in the area of psychological 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 < /span>a problem-solving orientation, is examined, taking into account life-span and cultural issues. 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-ordinatorLauren Fitzpatrick
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. Apply advanced understanding 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. Undertake a structured history- taking interview as the preliminary component of psychological assessments.
- Activities:
- Active participation in tutorial role plays
03. Administer psychological tests taking into account issues of validity and 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. 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. Communicate effectively to clients, families, referral agencies, and other psychologists about the psychological assessment with understanding of how to incorporate 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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Melbourne, 2019, Semester 1, Day
Overview
Online enrolmentYes
Maximum enrolment sizeN/A
Enrolment information
Subject Instance Co-ordinatorLauren Fitzpatrick
Class requirements
SeminarWeek: 10 - 22
One 3.0 hours seminar per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
Assessments
| Assessment element | Comments | % | ILO* |
|---|---|---|---|
| One 20-minute practical examination of a videoed assessment (1,000-words equivalent) | Achievement of professional competence in administering a selected Wechsler test battery | 20 | 01, 02, 03, 04 |
| One psychological assessment report (2,000-words) | 40 | 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 | |
| Four completed record forms of psychological test administrations (1,500-words total) | 30 | 01, 02, 03, 04 | |
| One written reflective journal report (500-words) | 10 | 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 |