What is the primary goal of a preference assessment?

The primary goal of a preference assessment is to identify learner interests. This process involves determining what items, activities, or experiences a learner finds appealing or rewarding. Understanding a learner's preferences is crucial, as it allows educators and caregivers to tailor interventions and instructional strategies that are more engaging and motivating for the learner. By recognizing these interests, educators can create a more individualized approach that is likely to enhance learning outcomes and promote positive behavior.

While enhancing social skills, improving academic performance, and reducing challenging behaviors are important objectives in an educational context, they are often secondary outcomes that stem from understanding and catering to the learner's preferences. Engaging a learner through their interests can lead to better social interactions, increased academic success, and a reduction in problematic behaviors, but the foundational step is accurately identifying those preferences first.