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Definition: What is an assessment instrument?

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Definition: What is an assessment instrument?

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A psychological assessment instrument is a standardized tool designed to measure a person's psychological characteristics, abilities, behaviors, or processes, in order to obtain objective and valid information about their development or functioning.

According to Cohen and Swerdlik (2018), assessment instruments are systematic and structured methods that allow for the reliable collection of data on psychological variables.

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Characteristics: 3 to 5 features every instrument must meet

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Characteristics: 3 to 5 features every instrument must meet

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Validity → truly measures what it aims to assess.

Reliability → produces consistent and stable results.

Standardization → has uniform rules and procedures for application.

Relevance → useful for the area of development or skill being studied.

Sensitivity → detects small changes in the child's development.

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🔹 By domain

•Cognitive (intelligence, memory, attention).

•Motor (gross and fine coordination).

•Language (comprehension, expression, communication).

•Socio-emotional (interactions, emotional regulation).

Adaptive (daily living skills).

🔹 By type

•Standardized tests (e.g., Bayley Scales).

•Checklists (developmental checklists).

•Observation tools (behavioral records).

•Developmental scales (Denver II, Battelle).

•Interviews (structured or semi-structured with parents/caregivers).

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Name of instrument: Bayley Scales of Infant Development (Bayley-III)

Area assessed: Cognitive, motor, language, socioemotional, and adaptive.

Target age: 1 to 42 months.

Description: Comprehensively assesses early development in different areas.

Example in early stimulation: Allows identification of language or motor delays to design an intervention plan.

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Instrument Name: Battelle Developmental Inventory (BDI-2)

Area Assessed: Communication, motor skills, cognition, adaptation, and socialization.

Target Age: 0 to 7 years.

Description: Combines observation, interviews, and structured tests to assess child development.

Example in child psychology: Detects special educational needs and guides early intervention programs.

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🦋Cohen, R. J., & Swerdlik, M. E. (2018). Psychological Testing and Assessment: An Introduction to Tests and Measurement (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

🦋Bayley, N. (2006). Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (3rd ed.). San Antonio, TX: Harcourt Assessment.

🦋Newborg, J. (2005). Battelle Developmental Inventory, Second Edition (BDI-2). Itasca, IL: Riverside Publishing.