How valid is the information gained from assessment instruments, and how should that information be applied? How do assessment instruments invade an individual’s privacy, and does the government have, at times, the right to insist that an individual be assessed?

It is clear that today’s assessment instruments have widespread applications. With the knowledge that many individuals have used assessment instruments for less than honorable reasons , it is critical that we remain vigilant about the use of such instruments. Keeping this in mind, we should continually be asking ourselves some important questions regarding the use of assessment instruments, including the following:

How valid is the information gained from assessment instruments, and how should that information be applied?
How do assessment instruments invade an individual’s privacy, and does the government have, at times, the right to insist that an individual be assessed?
Can the use of some assessment instruments lead to labeling, and what are the implications for individuals who are “labeled”?
Are assessment procedures used to foster equality for all people, or do they tend to reinforce existing societal divisions based on class?

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