PSY FPX 7610 Assessment 1

Introduction

Behavior analytic skills assessments are favored in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapies, particularly in the assessment of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Three are well-known among RBTs, who are Registered Behavior Technicians: Verbal Behavior Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VBMAPP), Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills, Revised (ABLLS-R), and Motivation Assessment Scale (MAS). All these tests have crucial roles in the intake process and ongoing therapy.

Verbal Behavior Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VBMAPP)

VB-MAPP determines deficits in verbal behavior in children with ASD and tracks progress during therapy. It consists of five components, divided into three levels of development. Level 1 assesses early and, tact, listener, social, visual-perceptual, match-to-sample, independent play, motor imitation, echoic skills, and spontaneous vocal behavior. Level 2 expands on the above skills and includes the assessment of listener responding, intraverbals, routine in classroom/group, and linguistic skills. Level 3 assesses pre-academic behaviors. VB-MAPP is utilized in clinical settings and schools to create language objectives (Barnes et al., 2014; Holland, 2017).

Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised (ABLLS-R)

ABLLS-R is a criterion-referenced curriculum guide and evaluation of language, social, academic, daily living, and motor skills development for children with ASD or language delay aged 3 to 9. ABLLS-R is extensively applied but lacks empirical data supporting its psychometric properties (Partington et al., 2016; Rispoli, 2014).

Motivation Assessment Scale (MAS)

MAS facilitates language development and addresses problem behavior using the understanding of motivation and guiding interventions in enhancing communication effectiveness. MAS can be used for applications with individuals with developmental delay and language disorder (Monaco & Associates).

PSY FPX 7610 Assessment 1 Evaluation of Test Purpose, Population, and Training for Three Tests

Normative Sample, Sampling Procedures, and Intended Population

VBMAPP and ABLLS-R are criterion-referenced tests without a normative sample, focusing on individual progress rather than group comparisons. VBMAPP is for children under the age of two, while ABLLS-R is for children aged 3 to 9 with ASD or language delay. MAS is for individuals with developmental delay and language impairment.

Test User Knowledge, Skills, and Training

There is a requirement to be skilled at administering these tests. VB-MAPP requires knowledge of verbal behavior concepts, and ABLLS-R can be administered by parents, teachers, or therapists. MAS is simple to administer and score, and it can be used by therapists, teachers, and others with minimal training (Barnes et al., 2014; Rispoli, 2014).

Comparisons and Contrasts of the Three Tests

VBMAPP and ABLLS-R cover verbal behavior but differ in covering how one is to assess progress. MAS is based on learning what drives the behavior. VB-MAPP is more favored with its detailed aspects in performing assessments with children and checking services are provided rightfully.

PSY FPX 7610 Assessment 1 Evaluation of Test Purpose, Population, and Training for Three Tests

Partington, J. W., Bailey, A., & Partington, S. W. (2016). A Pilot Study Examining Test–Retest and Internal Consistency Reliability of the ABLLS-R. Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, 36(4), 405–410. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734282916678348

Rispoli, M. J. (2014). Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised (ABLLSR). Encyclopedia of Special Education. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118660584.ese0197