| PowerPath to Adult Basic Learning |
Yields reliable information: the screening material reliably measures indicators of potential learning
disabilities and yields consistent results (if the screening tool was given to the same person again, similar
indicators of potential learning disabilities would be evident). A low standard of error should be evident. |
Promotional material states PowerPath's Screening Process is
standardized, validated, and reliable.
Although the PowerPath was built upon the ABE screening procedure known as the
London Procedure developed by Dr. Weisel, the research on the validity and
reliability of PowerPath itself are still in progress. |
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Is valid: The screening material adequately represents the
full range of characteristics associated with learning
disabilities. The screening material is consistent with
what is currently known about learning disabilities. It
covers a scope sufficient to provide an initial assessment
in several areas such as language, motor, organization
and social skills (look for a description of which learning
disability indicators may be assessed with the instrument). |
Promotional material states PowerPath's Screening Process is standardized, validated, and reliable.
Although PowerPath was built upon the ABE screening procedure known as the
London Procedure developed by Dr. Weisel, the research on the validity and reliability of
PowerPath itself are still in progress.14
The following areas are screened: information processing, attention
difficulties and scotopic sensitivity. |
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The tool is cost-effective including initial purchase and
ongoing purchases of related materials such as question booklets, score sheets etc. |
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PowerPath Kit = $2995.00 US
To reorder the forms/consumables costs $465.00 US for 100 units. |
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The time required to conduct the screening procedures is
reasonable: it is quick to administer, score, and interpret. |
In the promotional material it states it will take approximately one hour to administer
the three screening tools. Scoring requires data entry into the software program which
will then generate individual reports. The promotional material states that the data can
be entered in a matter of minutes. |
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The requirements for learning to use the screening tool are reasonable. Requirements may range from reviewing
the instructions and user manual to participating in a training session. |
It is designed for adult basic instructors and literacy volunteers. Users are not required to
attend PowerPath Certification Training to use PowerPath, but it is recommended that
PowerPath sites have at least one PowerPath certified user. Self-instruction
takes approximately 8 - 15 hours and familiarity with the User's guide and test plates.15
To become certified as a PowerPath user, an individual must attend PowerPath's Level I
Certification Training -- including completion of the course prerequisites, 20
contact hours of training, AND submission of a complete case study*.
PowerPath trainings are hosted by a state or a group of PowerPath sites within a specific
region. A $125.00/person registration and materials fee is charged to attend the 3 day
Certification Training. Travel expenses and meals are assumed by either the training
host or the individual PowerPath site. |
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Minimize bias: The screening material accurately
highlights potential indicators of learning disabilities
regardless of a person's age, gender, race, ethnicity, or primary language. |
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PowerPath was developed based on a pilot study of the
London Procedure which does not include basic demographics of age, gender,
race, ethnicity or primary language. Further studies are in progress to address this. |
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Instructions are provided on how to interpret the screening tool results/findings. |
Software to analyze screening results and prescribe accommodations. The results provide the following information:
- The Personal Profile -- A recap of the information collected during the intake interview
- Diagnostic Screening Analysis -- An explanation of assessment results
- Degree of Learning Difficulty Score -- A weighted score used to predict required service
accommodations and levels of learning difficulty
- Service Accommodations -- The emotional, social, and structural supports needed for the client to build
self-esteem and to develop the independent learning skills required for acquiring basic skills
- Learning Accommodations -- Recommended strategies that build on strengths, compensate for weaknesses,
and target the development of basic skills
- Workplace Accommodations - A series of recommended strategies for maximizing job training or on-the-job success
- Attention Difficulties Screening - Analysis and Accommodations
- Scotopic Sensitivity Screening - Analysis and Accommodations
- Partnership Contract -- A guide for setting mutual expectations for a successful learning experience
- Referral Forms -- Forms to use when it is necessary to follow up on
any vision and/or hearing weaknesses uncovered in the screening
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The tool is compatible with the goals of the organization.
For example, if you serve only adults, was the test developed for adults only or if you serve a number of
ESL learners, was this the intended audience for the screening tool? |
Programs similar to LBS use the tool. It is intended for adult literacy learners. It uses a
holistic approach incorporating theory and practice from fields of adult learning. |
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The format and written text follows clear language guidelines. |
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The tool includes information to help select possible learning materials and/or instructional practices. |
A structured intervention process to build 'learning how to learn' skills, Personal
Learning Plans and Personal Employment Plans.
Provides both learning and workplace accommodations. |
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