Conducting the VB-MAPP Course
When scoring barriers and transition sections for non-vocal clients should we mark the lowers score or should we leave the scoring blank since it does not apply? example for Barriers #4 impaired tact the lowest score is: "4 . Minimal tact skills despite strong echoic and LDs, many failed attempts at teaching tacts". However, this will not be correct since the client does not have echoic skills and is not able to tact with any other communication supports.
Hi Daisy,
Thanks for reaching out. So the answer is different based on which assessment. In terms of the barriers, I understand your concerns about scoring the barriers as a #4 if the learner doesn't exhibit some of those behaviors. The problem is with leaving the question blank it will "look" like the learner scored a zero (that is there is no issue). I would recommend scoring the question a 4 and adding a note to that barrier. In terms of the transition assessment, if the learner can not score a #1, leave the question blank and that will reflect they weren't demonstrating the "minimum" behavior to score a 1 on the transition. Just an FYI the transition assessment is optional and if the learner is not ready to move to a lesser restrictive environment that assessment doesn't have to be done.
Thanks for reaching out. So the answer is different based on which assessment. In terms of the barriers, I understand your concerns about scoring the barriers as a #4 if the learner doesn't exhibit some of those behaviors. The problem is with leaving the question blank it will "look" like the learner scored a zero (that is there is no issue). I would recommend scoring the question a 4 and adding a note to that barrier. In terms of the transition assessment, if the learner can not score a #1, leave the question blank and that will reflect they weren't demonstrating the "minimum" behavior to score a 1 on the transition. Just an FYI the transition assessment is optional and if the learner is not ready to move to a lesser restrictive environment that assessment doesn't have to be done.
Its mean if client cant talk tact Intraverbal and all.verbal be 0 for all in all domains ?
Remember verbal behavior isnt just spoken words, but you are right in the sense that if your learner is using a picture system (selection based system) the simplest explanation for what is going on when learner tacts or engages in IV behavior with pictures is there is a match to sample or a LRFFC occurring (respectively). So if this is the case giving (especially an early/younger learner) 0 points for those milestones is probably a good idea and then when that learner is able to possibly speak, sign or type (topographical systems) as they make progress with the VB-MAPP those milestones can be scored. However, please remember if a learner is using a selection based system and that alternative method of communication has resulted in that learner being able to mand and problem bx decreasing that is an amazing accomplishment in itself!