OCTH 6101 - Evaluation and Assessment Across the Lifespan/Conditions

Prerequisite: OCTH 6004. This course will provide an introduction to principles of tests and measurement and outcomes-based assessment relevant to the practice of occupational therapy with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. This course will include specific modules on assistive technology, wheelchair, orthopedic and dysphagia/swallowing and feeding evaluation and assessment across the lifespan. The course will include measurement theory, the assessment process and procedures, outcomes-based assessment, statistical methods, and test selection and interpretation in relation to cultural and socioeconomic sensitivity of the client. The role of the occupational therapy assistant in the evaluation process will be examined. A wide variety of evaluation and assessment instruments will be introduced. These include, but are not limited to, specified screening assessments, skilled observation, checklists, histories, interviews with the client/family/significant others, and standardized and non-standardized tests and batteries. Using the ICF as an overarching framework, evaluations covered will yield information about the clients' occupations across the levels of function, activity, and participation. Measurement tools will also be critiqued in regard to use and research evidence support. 3 credits.