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A psychoeducational evaluation, sometimes referred to as a psych-ed eval is an assessment of how a student learns. It measures different types of reasoning, memory, and working efficiency. This is in contrast to learned knowledge, like math facts or vocabulary definitions. Pyschoeducational evaluations are most commonly recommended for students who are either gifted or having difficulty in school. However, the information in a psychoeducational evaluation is great for every student.

 

A psychoeducational evaluation offers a snapshot of a child’s current cognitive and educational functioning. The psychologist will need a thorough history of the child that includes medical, prenatal and perinatal factors that can affect learning.

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The primary purpose of school-based evaluations is to determine if the student meets the eligibility criteria to receive special services.  The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) includes 13 categories under which students can receive special education services.  Each state, and in some states each district, further clarifies the criteria for eligibility for services under each category.  School psychologists conduct evaluations to be used by the eligibility committee to determine if the student meets eligibility criteria under one or more of the special education eligibility categories.  School psychoeducational evaluations do not result in diagnoses.

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A psychoeducational evaluation is essentially an assessment of a student’s functioning in three main areas: learning ability, academic skills development, and personality or adjustment factors.

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Tests of Cognitive Abilities: These measure a student’s abilities in terms of I.Q., verbal reasoning, visual reasoning, problem-solving, working memory/attention, and processing speed. Additional tests may be given to assess such areas as phonological processing, executive functioning, etc.

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Tests of Academic Skill Development: These explore a student’s skills in reading, written language, and mathematics. Students are tested on basic skills development and higher-level application and reasoning skills, such as comprehension, word identification and applied mathematical problem-solving.

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Test of Personality/Adjustment Factors: These determine a student’s emotional, behavioral, and adaptive functioning, including: self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family dynamics, adjustment to change and transition, motivation and acting out behaviors.

Test scores can be impacted by the student’s test-taking behavior. We understand that how children obtain test scores is just as important as the actual scores themselves. This is why we gather both qualitative and quantitative information to compile our reports. 

Why Perform an Evaluation?

We do this to determine whether a specific learning or other disability is having an effect on a student’s school performance. For instance, the diagnosis of an attention deficit disorder can lead to high amounts of academic frustration and inability to perform at an optimal level.

An evaluation helps to provide a better idea of how a student learns best. Knowing a student’s learning style or profile can help teachers and parents work with the student to make adjustments and maximize potential.

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When is a Psychoeducational Evaluation Recommended?

We recommend psychoeducational evaluations for students experiencing academic difficulties and frustration. 

 

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