Choosing the Right Assessment: Practical Tips for BCBAs

Assessments are essential in ABA, but are we always using them the right way? Too often, assessments become a box-checking exercise rather than a true guide to meaningful intervention. In this conversation, we revisit the foundations of ABA assessments and explore how to move beyond simply filling in grids and scoring sheets.We look at some of the most widely used tools, including the ABLLS, VB-MAPP, and Early Start Denver Model, and share how to choose the right one for your learner. You’ll learn why assessments are not the same as curriculum, and how mistaking one for the other can lead to cookie-cutter programs that miss individual needs. Instead, we highlight how assessments should serve as a starting point, giving you a baseline to individualize treatment goals and track progress over time.You’ll also hear updates on newer tools like the MOTAS (Meaningful Outcomes Treatment and Assessment Scale) and the IGL (Inventory of Good Learner Repertoires), which can help bridge the gap between assessment data and real-world functional progress.If you’ve ever wondered how to make assessments feel less overwhelming and more impactful, this episode will give you practical strategies and a fresh perspective.What’s Inside:Why assessments are not curriculumChoosing the right tool for the right learnerUpdates on MOTAS and IGL for functional outcomesTips for making assessments efficient and individualizedMentioned In This Episode:Check out our blog on assessmentsMeasuring What Matters: Meaningful Outcomes with the MOTAS Assessment CEU EventHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram