What is the main purpose of developing nonverbal instruments in assessments?

The main purpose of developing nonverbal instruments in assessments is to control for the influences of language and culture. Nonverbal assessments provide a standardized approach that minimizes language barriers, allowing evaluators to obtain a clearer understanding of an individual's abilities or skills without the potential distortions that verbal communication might introduce. This is particularly important in diverse populations where language proficiency may vary, ensuring that all individuals can be assessed fairly and effectively regardless of their linguistic background.

By focusing on nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, gestures, and other forms of body language, these instruments can capture essential information that might be overlooked in verbal assessments. This approach allows for a more accurate and inclusive evaluation of an individual's capabilities while recognizing that verbal communication may not be a strong suit for everyone, particularly in multicultural settings. This highlights the importance of using nonverbal instruments to get a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the assessed individual.