Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit focuses on the application of psychological assessment in various clinical and non-clinical contexts across the lifespan. A brief review of psychometric principles, including those related to reliability and validity, is covered. The unit includes a combination of theoretical presentations and practical experience in evaluating and administering psychometric instruments, as well as interpreting their scores. Commonly used psychological tests and interviewing techniques will be studied with respect to their theoretical basis, construction, reliability, validity, and normative samples. Cross-cultural considerations in the application of psychological tests will also be studied and examined critically, in addition to the ethical issues pertinent to psychological assessment.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify and describe a science-informed approach to obtaining and integrating relevant assessment information for an individual; (2) describe limitations associated with various approaches to psychological assessment; (3) interpret commonly used psychological test scores accurately; (4) produce a psychological assessment report based on test scores and qualitative considerations; (5) demonstrate successful interpersonal skills and interviewing techniques in situations appropriate to psychological practice and research; (6) describe the nature of reliability and validity, as well its importance in the context of psychological assessment; and (7) reflexively examine and integrate implications of assessment when working with people from diverse cultures, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) role play interview; (2) case report; and (3) exam. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Guy Curtis
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
HON-PSYCH Psychology
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
Small group seminars: Four weeks, 2-hours each
Note
Student are exposed to topics in psychology units that may cause some discomfort or distress in certain individuals (e.g. depression, suicide, trauma, eating disorders). They are required to demonstrate skills across a variety of different formats and contexts (e.g. written assessments, participation in practical work, contribution to group discussions, oral presentations, examinations) so it is important that students carefully consider whether they are able to cope with the demands of studying psychology and whether there is anything that would impact upon their ability to complete the requirements of the unit. Refer to individual unit outlines for more detailed unit information.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.