All diagnostic evaluation reports submitted as documentation of a learning disability must be current and completed by a professional who is qualified and appropriately licensed to diagnose learning disorders. The report must adhere to the following guidelines
- The evaluation report must minimally contain measures that address: Aptitude (IQ), achievement (reading, math, and written language), and processing (e.g. visual and auditory).
- Testing must include normed tests such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales 4th Edition (WAIS-IV), etc.
- Screening tests, such as the Wide-Range Achievement Test (WRAT), the Nelson Denny Reading Test, or the Peabody Individual Achievement Test cannot be used as the sole measure of achievement.
- All subtest, factor, and index scores must be provided for all measures reported. Additionally, the classification ranges associated with these scores should be noted (e.g. borderline, average, high average).
- The report must include pertinent history related to the learning disorder and information that describes how the learning disorder currently affects academic performance and contributes to a significant impairment in academic functioning.
- The evaluation report must contain a clear statement of diagnosis of the specific learning disorder based upon established clinical criteria (e.g., American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual - V (DSM-V). Vague terms such as "may have," "seems to have," or "suggests" are not acceptable as diagnostic.
- The assessment must include an interpretative summary that includes:
- An indication that alternative explanations for the student's presenting symptoms have been ruled out.
- A description of the functional limitations caused by the learning disability on the student's current participation in College programs, courses, and other activities of the College.
- Recommendations for necessary and appropriate accommodations to equalize the student's educational opportunities at Occidental College.
Last updated: July 17, 2013