Start your PYC4807 journey here. This welcome page introduces the structure and goals of the tutorial series and outlines what to expect from each theme.
Dear Students,
Welcome to our tutorial courses! I'm thrilled to embark on this learning journey with each and every one of you.
Before we delve into the materials, I'd like to address a few important points. Firstly, if you've noticed, the 6th edition of our course material has been prescribed. Now, if you currently only have access to the 5th edition, fret not! Remember, "theory is theory," and the essence remains unchanged. However, I highly recommend familiarising yourself with the updates outlined in the Oxford publishing summary for the 6th edition. While I've already secured my copy, I encourage you to consider purchasing it for a comprehensive understanding.
Additionally, as you navigate through Chapters 3 to 7, particularly on psychometric properties, you might find it challenging initially. But trust me, with patience and dedication, comprehension improves significantly, making the rest of the material more engaging and easier to grasp.
Now, concerning the online course materials, please note that they're not available for download. This measure is in place to safeguard intellectual property, and I deeply appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Remember, the course contents will remain accessible throughout the year. Your membership will expire on the due date of the exam portfolio, ensuring you have ample time to absorb and apply what you've learned.
Let's embark on this educational journey together, supporting and inspiring one another every step of the way. Here's to a successful and enriching experience ahead!
Warm regards,
Irene
Outline:
🌟 Theme 1: Psychometric Theory
Understand the foundations of psychological testing:
- Key Concepts:
- Reliability & Validity
- Norm-referenced vs. Criterion-referenced measures
- Psychometric bias & test equivalence
- Test development, adaptation, and cross-cultural translation
- Resources:
- 📘 *Foxcroft & de Kock (2023)*: Ch. 3 (only 3.6), 4, 5, 6, 7
- 📄 Articles: Gadd & Phipps (2012), Gradidge & De Jager (2011), Hill et al. (2013), Oosthuizen & Phipps (2012)
> 🔍 Heads-up: Sections 3.2, 3.3 & 3.5 in Ch. 3 cover stats basics—not part of the syllabus, but useful for background if needed.
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🧠 Theme 2: Types of Psychological Assessment Measures
Explore different kinds of assessment tools:
- Focus Areas:
- Cognitive ability & personality theories
- Types of tests and their purposes
- Choosing suitable measures for assessment batteries
- Know a few test examples (no need to memorise all)
Resources:
- 📘 Foxcroft & de Kock (2023): Ch. 10, 12, 13 (13.2), 15 (15.2 & 15.3)
- 📄 Articles: Bar-On (2006), Costa et al. (2001)
> 💻 Note: Ch. 14 on tech-based assessment is not examinable but good to be aware of.
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🧩 Theme 3: Applying Assessment in Context
See how assessments are used in real-world settings:
Contexts Covered:
- Early Childhood
- Educational Settings
- Organisational Contexts
What You'll Learn:
- Test selection for different contexts
- Administering tests & interpreting scores
- Providing feedback
- Applying knowledge to case studies
‼️ Please be cautious when using student sites like StuDocu, Stuvia, Course Hero etc. They often contain outdated or incorrect answers from past students. Always cross-check with your course material or ask if you're unsure.
If you have any questions or concerns on academic or admin/site-related issues, I'm an email away. c9c.tutorials@gmail.com
I will create a WhatsApp group for academic/admin chats towards the end of March when registration closes. Send me your phone number if you're interested in joining and interacting with your peers.
Kindest,
Irene
Prescribed Book
Reference (APA Style 7th ed.)
Foxcroft, C., & De Kock, F. (2023). Introduction to psychological assessment in the South African context (6th ed.). Oxford University Press.
Please note that the sixth edition is prescribed for this module. This version differs somewhat from
earlier editions. Several new psy tests and research have been included, however, theory obviously remains the same :)
You may purchase a hardcopy directly from the publisher:
Read through thoroughly before you start your studies!
101_2025_0_b PYC4807.pdf
102_2025_0_b PYC4807.pdf
This is a high risk module with a heavy workload.
Please go through BOTH tuts with a fine tooth comb.
Gadd & Phipps (2012)
Gradidge & De Jager (2011)
Hill et al. (2013)
Oosthuizen & Phipps (2012)
Bar-On (2006)
Costa, Terracciano, & McCrae (2001)
Meisels & Atkins Burnett (1999)
Van Eeden, De Beer & Coetzee (2001)
To complete this module, you will be required to submit 2 assignments and a portfolio
(exam). Check due dates on myModules site.
The assignment comprises 15 MCQ questions. Before attempting the assignment, you should master the material in Theme 1: Psychometric Theory - Topic 1.1: Psychometric properties in Tutorial letter 102.