(a) General. The requirements of this section shall apply to
programs conducted under title I (i.e., sections 121 and 123) and title
II, parts A, B, and C.
(b) Definition. (1) For purposes of this part, an objective
assessment means an examination of the capabilities, needs, and
vocational potential of a participant and is to be used to develop an
individual service strategy and employment goal. Such assessment is
customer-centered and a diagnostic evaluation of a participant's
employment barriers taking into account the participant's family
situation, work history, education, basic and occupational skills,
interests, aptitudes (including interests and aptitudes for
nontraditional occupations), attitude towards work, motivation, behavior
patterns affecting employment potential, financial resources and needs,
supportive service needs, and personal employment information as it
relates to the local labor market.
(2) For the program under title II-B, the objective assessment shall
include an examination of the basic skills and supportive service needs
of each participant and may include the other areas listed in paragraph
(b)(1) of this section (sections 204(a)(1)(A), 253(c)(1) and
264(b)(1)(A)).
(c) Methods of objective assessment. (1) The SDA shall choose the
most appropriate means to measure skills, abilities, attitudes, and
interests of the participants. The methods used in conducting the
objective assessment may include, but are not limited to, structured
interviews, paper and pencil tests, performance tests (e.g., skills,
and/or work samples, including those that measure interest and
capability to train in nontraditional employment), behavioral
observations, interest and/or attitude inventories, career guidance
instruments, aptitude tests, and basic skills tests.
(2) Instruments used for objective assessment may be developed at
the local level; however, any formalized instruments nationally
available should be used only for the specific populations for which
they are normed.
(d) Updating of assessments. Objective assessment should be treated
as an ongoing process. As additional relevant information relating to a
participant becomes available, it should be reviewed and considered for
inclusion in the individual service strategy.
(e) Other sources of objective assessment. Other non-JTPA
assessments (e.g., through the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS)
program under title IV of the Social Security Act, or through schools)
which have been completed within one year of application for services,
and which meet the requirements of this section, may be used to comply
with the requirement to assess each participant.
