Why conduct assessment?
Assessment is useful to identify an individual’s learning ability. More information on Psychological Assessments for students can be found here.
Usually I recommended both a WISC ( Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) or WPPSI-III (Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence) and a WIAT ( Wechsler Individual Achievement Test) as these two tests give the best indication of a student’s cognitive ability and academic achievement levels.
The scoring of these two tests is done in such a way that when used in combination can predict any discrepancies between intelligence and achievement. Assessment may also be helpful to identify learning disabilities (such as dyslexia), giftedness or under achievement.
The most common is when a child has an average or above average intelligence and is below average in achievement. This is usually due to a specific learning disability in reading or maths.
However, the most important reason for conducting assessment is to develop an individual learning plan for each individual. Everyone learns differently, however, once you know strengths and weaknesses, learning programs can be tailored to an individual’s needs.
For example, if a student struggles with decoding words, then they need to work on a phonics based program. If they are having problems with reading comprehension, then a learning program should target comprehension.
Dyslexia is a learning disability, where it manifests itself as a difficulty with reading and written language. It is believed to be a brain –based condition.
Basically people with dyslexia are processing language differently to others.
Some have referred to dyslexia as a “gift” because often these people need to find creative ways to solve problems. Despite their difficulties in decoding written language, they can find ways around this and end up solving problems in different ways. However, for a young person learning to read – it can be frustrating!
Assessment can also identify issues with auditory processing. Auditory processing is the ability to encode auditory information. Problems in auditory processing may lead to problems in auditory working memory and auditory sequencing. Many dyslexics have auditory processing problems including history of auditory reversals. Auditory processing disorder is recognised as one of the major causes of dyslexia.
Assessment is also useful to detect any difficulties as early as possible. If you detect a problem in learning early, then early intervention is essential.
A qualified Educational Psychologist is the best person to conduct these assessments. They can then provide details recommendations for each individual.
Students with learning problems often suffer from a low self esteem. Counselling is often recommended to help individuals understand that they are not “dumb” or “stupid” – they simply learn differently!
