Assessment is a broad, overarching term and multifaceted process. Arguably, it is the sine qua non of psychological research and practice. Without it, psychology’s worldwide contributions to education, business, mental health, public policy, and other areas would be diminished. Although many people believe assessment, particularly testing, is a static, reductionist process, this is often not the case. Rather, assessment can be a dynamic, excitingly rich, and remarkably transformative process.

For this 10-15 minute presentation, objectives include: (1) increased familiarity with diverse approaches to assessment and testing, (2) increased awareness of existing literature and empirical bases of, for example, collaborative/therapeutic assessment approaches, and (3) re-consideration of “best practices†in testing, particularly in international contexts.

The presentation is based, in part, on a soon-to-be-published book chapter co-authored by the presenter(s), many of whom are past, or current, presidents of international organizations. The book is called, “Going Global: How Psychology and Psychologists Can Meet a World of Need (APA Books).â€

Because we live in a complex, highly diverse world, it’s important, the authors believe, to collect both quantitative and qualitative data; collaborate with constituents as much as possible; ask good, meaningful, culturally appropriate questions; and attend closely to (and reflect on) assessment-related processes, just as much as outcomes. It is also important to think big, start small, and go slow. These practices will be presented. Sufficient time will be allowed for questions.