The Allen Diagnostic Module-2nd edition (ADM-2; Earhart, 2006; Earhart, 2014; Earhart & McCraith, 2020) is an observational, performance-based assessment of functional cognitive capacity developed within the Cognitive Disabilities Model.  It consists of 27 standardized assessments that use craft-based activities with cognitive activity demands of varied cognitive complexity to evaluate a person’s ability to solve problems and learn new information essential for safe performance in uncertain or changing conditions.  Scores are criterion referenced to the levels and modes on the Allen Cognitive Scale of Levels and Modes of Performance (Allen Cognitive Scale), a measure of cognitive complexity of functional cognitive abilities and cognitive activity demands.

ADMs may be used by practitioners to verify results of the Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS-5) or serially to identify a pattern of performance as part of a comprehensive functional evaluation.  When used to verify an ACLS-5 score, practitioners provide persons with a choice of one or more meaningful ADM assessments with activity demands of equivalent and greater cognitive complexity than the cognitive complexity reflected in the screen score to ensure that the person has opportunities to demonstrate their highest, most cognitively complex level of performance.

The Allen Diagnostic Module-2nd edition Manual containing administration protocols with scoring criteria and Guidelines for Use for the 27 activity assessments is available from S&S Worldwide, Colchester CT.  Prepared assessment kits for all ADMs may be purchased separately from S&S.  Alternatively, instructions for self-manufacturing  assessment kits for 6 ADMs including updated  administration and scoring protocols may be purchased through the eStore on this website.  Supporting videos demonstrating how to manufacture test kits and make samples required for administration of these assessments may be viewed under the Resources tab.

References

Earhart, C. A. (2006).  Allen Diagnostic Module: Manual.  S&S Worldwide.

Earhart, C. A. (2014).  Allen Diagnostic Module: Manual-2nd edition, Revised. ACLS & LACLS Committee.

Earhart, C. A. & McCraith, D. B (2020). Cognitive Disabilities Model: Allen Cognitive Level Screen-5 and Allen Diagnostic Module (2nd Edition) Assessments.  In B. Hemphill & C. Urish (Eds.), Assessment in occupational therapy mental health: an integrative approach (4th ed., pp. 179-201). Slack, Inc.

Click for information on the current ADM-2.