Required Readings

The readings this week are all contained within one chapter and will give you the basis by which you will evaluate and understand assessments used throughout the course. Please keep in mind that Weeks 2-6 are the most difficult weeks for the course – after that it becomes much more enjoyable. If you are having trouble with the readings, please post so online in the discussion areas and we can discuss the topics that are difficult. As well, there are numerous places online that explain these concepts in a variety of ways! Just use the key word in a search engine, and there will be many opportunities for multimedia formats of explanations and lectures.

Please complete the readings, listen to the podcast, and watch the videos listed below:

• Textbook: Assessment Procedures, Chapter 3 “Statistical Concepts”- As you read through this chapter, keep in mind the need to understand how to evaluate and consider the use of assessments. Without an understanding of the statistical concepts used in the assessment/test, it will not be possible to know if it is appropriate for a particular population, or if it actually measures what it says it does, or even if it reliably measures the same thing every time it is given! Unless the statistical concepts are understood, we cannot assist our clients with this basic information, and truly, we can cause great harm by not understanding it – keep this in mind as you read so that your reading has a purpose and an intention behind it. It will make it more meaningful!
   
• Podcast: A Very Short Review of Statistical Concepts- In this podcast, why Chapter 3, Statistical Concepts, is so important to you and your clients is explained. The main scales and measurements will be briefly mentioned as well.
   
• Video: Measures of Central Tendency

• Video: Measures of Central Tendency and Standard Deviation