Course description
This course will build on the student’s understanding of assessment in order to thoroughly examine assessment instruments used in therapeutic recreation and other allied health fields. Students will explore the selection and evaluation of assessment instruments, the development of agency specific assessment instruments and the use of assessment instruments in research.
Course content
Assessment history and complexities
Principles of assessment and the assessment process
Evaluating and critiquing assessments
Assessment documentation
- Assessment protocols
- Individual program plans
- Documenting client data
Designing agency-specific assessments
Assessments used by allied health professions
Language and culture considerations in the assessment process
Assessments for specific client groups
- Older adults
- Clients with intellectual disabilities
- Physical health outcomes
- Behavioural health outcomes
Learning activities
In this course, students engage in a variety of learning activities such as lecture, class discussions, small group work, and student presentations.
Means of assessment
The means of assessment for this course will align with the delivery mode and adhere to the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. An evaluation schedule is presented at the beginning of the course. This is a graded course. Regardless of format, the assessments include a minimum of three separate assessments and include a combination of:
- Tests
- Written assignments
- Group facilitation and leadership
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Describe assessment terminology and philosophical links to research and evaluation;
- Discuss factors for selecting an assessment instrument;
- Discuss ways to evaluate a commercial assessment instrument;
- Design and implement an assessment protocol including documentation in a client’s record;
- Apply a variety of assessment instruments related to key concepts such as quality of life, psychological health, social functioning, self-efficacy;
- Explore the use of assessment instruments in research;
- Apply observation as an assessment procedure;
- Discuss ways to develop an agency specific assessment instrument.
Textbook materials
Textbooks and materials are to be purchased by students. A list of required textbooks and materials is provided for students at the beginning of the semester.