Last Blog

            With this being the last blog, I would like to touch on chapter fifteen related to assessment issues with diverse populations and then reflect on the class overall.  Dummond and Jones made a variety of valid points concerning diversity.  It is vital for school counselors to be aware of their students related to the variety of aspects such as race, ethnicity, age, language, gender, sexual orientation, and religious/spiritual orientation.  When assessing a student you want to ensure that it is appropriate for the particular individual.  It is stated that we assume that everyone is given an equal opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities but we have to be cautious due to some assessment not allowing us to do so.  There are many test bias that we should be aware of such as content, internal structure, selection, test-taker, and examiner bias.  Diversity is continuing to become more prevalent in today’s schools and it is essential that we are cognizant about. 

            In regards to the overall class, I found the various assignments to be a meaningful learning experience.  I liked the fact that we went through the process of administering two types of tests with a client and continue the process by interpreting the results from them.  I believed that I did a nice job with the actual test administration and interpretation.  However, when reporting the results to the student I need to be aware of the role I am in.  I believe that this is an area that I will struggle with in transfer from the “teacher” role to the “counselor” but it will be a work in progress.  After reviewing the tape and receiving feedback from my peers, I now feel better prepared if I am required to do this type of assignment in my practicum or as a counselor.  When it came to the paper, it helped me become knowledgeable to how to write a report so that it is clear and precise.  Next, I would like to reflect on the KTEAII that I reviewed and presented on.  Even though this was a comprehensive test, I was able to gather the necessary information needed and made me more aware of how much preparation is needed when choosing and administering a test.  This test in particular had several tasks to do before you administered it and as future counselors we need to be aware of this.  Even though I know that I still have areas of growth, I feel as though this class provided me with hands on experiences that I needed that will help me in practicum.    In conclusion, we have learned valuable information that will help us in the future as counselors. 

Drummond, R. J. and Jones, K. (2010). Assessment procedures for counselors and helping professionals. (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.