The McDermott Multidimensional Assessment of Children: Applications to the Classification of Childhood Exceptionality

The McDermott Multidimensional Assessment of Children (M-MAC) is a comprehensive microcomputer system for the objective integration and analysis of information obtained from over 30 psychological and educational sources, including: standardized intelligence and achievement tests, the professional judgments of child specialists, adaptive behavior scales, criterion-referenced learning scales, and teacher and parent behavior rating devices. M-MAC provides both multidimensional classifications of child exceptionality and detailed individualized educational programs. M-MAC's classification functions are introduced and reviewed in this article. Specifically, M-MAC is reviewed in light of those characteristics regarded as fundamental to establishing an acceptable classification system; namely, a system's comprehensiveness, reliability, validity and versatility. M-MACs special features for diagnostic practice, professional training, and research are also discussed.

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