Explore Theme 2 of PYC4807: Learn about types of psychological assessment, test users, and test use. UNISA student support resources.
Refer to TL101: The resources for this theme are Chapters 10, 12, 13 (section 13.2) and 15 (sections 15.2 and 15.3) in Foxcroft and de Kock (2023) and the articles by Bar-On (2006) and Costa, Terracciano, and McCrae (2001).
non-verbal reasoning
the Big Five
This theme discusses theoretical approaches for measuring cognitive ability and personality, and explores different types of tests. It emphasises using available information to determine if a test is suitable for an assessment purpose, considering context, purpose, construct, norm group, psychometric properties, and multicultural context. It suggests having knowledge of examples of different tests to propose an assessment battery.
Note: You do not have to know all the tests available, but you should know some examples that you can use when required to propose an assessment battery.
Cite your prescribed book properly:
Foxcroft, C., & de Kock, F. (2023). Introduction to psychological assessment in the South African context (6th ed.). Oxford University Press.
FURTHER READING:
JSTOR (OPEN ACCESS) e-book 😃
‼️ Please be cautious when using student sites like StuDocu and Stuvia. They often contain outdated or incorrect answers from past students. Always cross-check with your course material or ask if you're unsure.
The assignment comprises 15 MCQ questions. Before attempting the assignment, you should master the material in Theme 1: Psychometric Theory - Topic 1.2: Test development, test adaptation and translation as well as Theme 2: Types of psychological assessment measures and Theme 3: Application of assessment in different contexts in Tutorial letter 102.
Cognitive functioning assessment has been a significant part of psychology's development since the last century. Different theories of intelligence, including biological, psychometric, and social theories, have led to the development of tests to assess intellectual ability. Measures of cognitive functioning include general cognitive functioning, specific abilities, aptitude measures, and scholastic tests. In the context of infants, and pre-schoolers, developmental assessments are organised into developmental screening and diagnostic measures.
The selection of a measure depends on the context and purpose of the assessment. Refer to TUT 102 2025 as a guide. Also, pay attention to Table 2.1, Table 2.2, and Table 2.3.
We will look at various theories of intelligence and tests that are used to assess cognitive functioning. The contents cover Chapter 10 in your prescribed textbook.
To access all lecture contents, register at c9c.tutorials@gmail.com
We will review the theoretical approaches to cognitive functioning as a refresher (PYC3713).
Different types of cognitive tests such as IQ, aptitude, dynamic, developmental, and EQ with examples will be covered. Which ones are individual tests? Which ones are group tests?
📣 As a psychology practitioner, understanding the connection between theory and cognitive assessments is essential. ‼️ Why? We have to score, interpret, and report results appropriately.
You will find below a summary on ‘Chapter 10 Cognitive Assessment’. Please note that my summary is based on the 4th edition of the prescribed book. Theory is theory, therefore, it is still relevant. However, more assessments (tests) have been included in the latest edition relevant to South African usage. These are covered in the lecture videos.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy
To understand the uniqueness of the individual
To identify the person’s characteristics, strengths and weaknesses
How s/he interacts with the world and the self.
We will cover personality theories and types of tests used in industry, education, for psychodiagnosis, forensic, and other contexts. This information is found in Chapter 12 in your book.
TUT102 covers personality assessment methods, including questionnaires, behavioural measures, and interest questionnaires. Modern personality questionnaires are more empirical, while behavioural measures focus on observable actions rather than traits. Interest questionnaires help individuals identify suitable careers.
Personality assessments are based on various theories, mainly psychological type and trait theories. There are two main measurement types:
Structured methods for stable traits
Projective techniques for motives and concerns
Cross-cultural research examines how personality constructs apply across cultures. Behavioural measures help assess maladaptive behaviours for therapy. Interest questionnaires, often used in career counselling, are combined with cognitive and personality tests to evaluate person-environment fit.
Refer to TUT102 for details. Pay attention to Table 2.5.
Many personality measures are based on personality theories, though not all follow this approach. Table 2.4 in TL102 outlines common theories, their assumptions, and related assessment tools.
Again, Foxcroft and de Kock (2023, Chapter 12) distinguish between:
- Stable trait assessments (psychological type and trait theories)
- Motives and personal concerns assessments (psychodynamic theories)
Some tests, like the MMPI, are not theory-based. Instead, they use an empirical keying approach to identify psychopathology, making them more suitable for clinical settings. You can explore personality theories by taking free online tests:
[Big Five Test](http://personality-testing.info/tests/BIG5.php) | [16PF Test](http://personality-testing.info/tests/16PF.php).
The most common theories underlying measures of personality are portrayed together with their basic assumptions. Types of personality are included in Chapter 12 and Tut102. Behavioural assessments are covered in Chapter 15.
PRE-READING is necessary.
You will find attached, a summary on ‘Chapter 12 Personality Assessment’. Please note that my summary is based on the 4th edition of the prescribed book. Theory is theory, therefore, it is still relevant. However, more assessments (tests) have been included in the latest edition relevant to South African usage.
Thanks to Course Hero
Thank you Prof. Jordan Peterson
For revision purposes, click 'Resources' on the Menu bar and locate the file - TL101_2017 questions and answers. The assignment is found on page 15.
Remember, A1 and A2 2021 questions and answers is also available. Go back and revise in preparation for Moodle A2 quiz/assignment.
Continue to Theme 3