Module II: Assessment of Sensory Motor Problems in Asperger’s Syndrome

Part III: Test Measures and Test Accommodations

Informal Measures and Tools

Informal measures and tools include observations made by the tester, use of checklists or inventories, and interviews with the family and/or individual being tested. Informal measures often provide information in a descriptive manner which can then be used to develop strategies to address problematic behaviors.

Informal observations could be done in a semi-structured or non-structured environment. A therapist, or specialist, might adapt his/her own methods of observations, based on sound, clinical judgement. Sound, clinical judgement takes time, experience, and practice to acquire. ¹⁴

Click on the icons below to view an example of a format used for informal testing of sensory integration during an assessment. You will need Adobe's free Acrobat Reader if you choose PDF format. (To acquire the OTA Sensory Modulation and Discrimination Evaluation form, contact OTA-Watertown at 617-923-4410, or infor@otawatertown.com )

OTA Sensory Modulation and Discrimination Evaluation

  

Checklists and interviews used in informal testing are usually more detailed than those used in the initial identification and referral process. Also, it is highly recommended that more than one checklist be used. For instance, for a school aged child, gathering information from the classroom teacher, gym, art or music teachers should be done, in addition to parent input. “Simply using one checklist for one observation in one environment may not yield accurate information. (p. 44)⁷

Also, when using informal assessments for adolescents and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome, they should be questioned directly. Completing pertinent checklists and being involved in the interview process is essential. Click on the icons below for a sample of a sensory checklist that can be completed by the adult and adolescent client.You will need Adobe's free Acrobat Reader if you choose PDF format. (To acquire the OTA Sensory Modulation and Discrimination Evaluation form, contact OTA-Watertown at 617-923-4410, or infor@otawatertown.com )

Developmental/Sensory History for Adults and Adolescents

  

 

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