The Optima Test for School Readiness
Optima Centre for Preschool Studies has developed a School Readiness Test which focusses on the whole child. It thus provides a tool for educators which enables them to objectively assess the learning readiness of potential learners before the enter the formal learning situation.
The Optima School Readiness Test consists of the following subtests:
Visual Perception
Auditory Perception
Social and Emotional Development
Basic Number Concepts
Fine and Gross Motor Development
Using these tools, qualified users can differentiate between children who are ready for the challenge of formal learning, and those who are not yet completely ready for school but with the necessary potential, and who can become ready in a short period of time with the help of an intervention program. A third group of learners might never become ready for learning in a typical school because of slumbering severe learning difficulties. Such learners should be referred for further professional evaluation and remedial therapy aimed at overcoming the specifically developmental backlogs and placement in a special school.
Interested in becoming a trained user?
The Optima School Readiness Test may be used by trained foundation phase educators, as well as Occupational therapists trained in the needs and development of preschool learners.
Product Details and Training
The Optima training materials comprises the following:
x1
Optima Test Kit
x1
1 Optima Manual and Correction Key
x1
1 Optima Workbook
Trained users can order workbooks directly from Optima
Benefits of the Optima School Readiness Test
The benefits of using the Optima School Readiness Test include the following:
The Grade R or Grade 1 teacher gets to know the level of learning readiness of the learners in her class early in the beginning of the school year, which enables her to meet each learner at his level of development and can plan her teaching accordingly.
Learners can be accommodated in different classes according to their needs. Classes thus become more homogenous.
Learners can receive specialized assistance from qualified personnel from the start of the school year where necessary.
The teacher feels empowered and in more in control when she is acquainted with the level of learning of each learner, thus increasing her job satisfaction.
Learners thrive at their own level, and feel safe, at ease and keen to learn.
Parents are happy and will be more supportive of both their children and the teacher if their children are happy and successful in their school careers.
Interested in attending a Parenting program?
Apart from the already mentioned School Readiness Test, Optima realize the need of the development of a Parenting Program which can teach parents the basic needs of young children with specific attention to assisting their children to become ready for learning, and well-adjusted in every way.