EDF5514 - Applied psychological assessment and psychopathology - 2019

This unit provides students with the opportunity for advanced exploration and analysis of the psychological assessment process. It involves scholarly consideration and debate of quantitative and qualitative approaches to psychological constructs, their dominant underpinning theories, means of assessment, and exploration of associated issues of validity and reliability, cultural and ethical considerations, and linguistic factors. Students acquire skills in the administration, scoring and interpretation of pertinent psychological tests, the integration of multiple sources of assessment data, and appropriate report writing. The unit also covers constructive critical appraisal and skills in making clinical judgement for the assessment and diagnostics of disabilities, psychopathology and human strengths (positive psychology). The unit also provides guided rehearsal and development of skills relating to general professional psychological practice.

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. identify and understand the varied aspects of psychological test validity
2. critically appraise psychological tests, including the theories that underpin them
3. effectively integrate multiple forms of assessment data
4. appreciate the impact of culture, linguistic load, and bias on the psychological assessment process
5. understand the pertinent ethical issues that arise when conducting psychological assessments and reporting results
6. clearly and succinctly report the results of a psychological assessment via a written report
7. think critically about psychological constructs, psychopathology and appropriate assessment.

Supervised practicum related activities are undertaken in this unit which contribute to the total placement hours required in EDF5517.

Psychological report including critical reflection component (3000 words, 40%)

Evidence-based assessment presentation (3000 words, 40%)

PeerWise quiz (2000 words equivalent, 20%)

Minimum total expected workload equals 288 hours per semester comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • 2.5-hour lecture/workshop per week
   • 0.5 hour per week supervision of placement-related activity
2. Additional requirements (all students):
   • independent study to make up the required minimum hours per week

See also Unit timetable information