This unit (APH4071) of study is a compulsory component which is designed to develop students' understanding of the principles and practice of psychological assessment. Topics include, conducting a clinical-assessment interview, formal assessment techniques, principles of test selection and report-writing. Students will explore the significance of the interpersonal and socio-cultural context in which assessment takes place. One structured cognitive assessment technique will be selected for more detailed study.

Unit details

Location:
Footscray Park
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
APH4071

Prerequisites

For ABPC students, College permission is required.

Get help

Find a different unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Critically reflect on the purpose of assessment and how it is used in a variety of settings;  
  2. Critically review the interview process and its role in a range of assessment settings;  
  3. Exemplify foundational knowledge of assessment protocols and formal assessment processes;  
  4. Interpret and report the results of structured cognitive assessment tasks (e.g., Weschler tests);  
  5. Report on the administration of a cognitive assessment and interview in a professional manner and in accordance with psychological ethical standards; and  
  6. Contextualise the significance of interpersonal processes and socio-cultural context in assessment.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Exercise Assessment exercise, Part A: WAIS Results B: WISC results (Approx 1500 words) 20%
Assignment Assessment report based on psychological testing 60%
Test Test (1hour) 20%
Assignment - (Approximately 2500 words) Part A: Background & MSE (20%) and Part B: Materials, Remaining Results Formulation & Recommendations (40%)

Required reading

Handbook of psychological assessment 6th ed.
Groth-Marnat, G. & Wright, A. J., (2016)
Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.