ACLS / LACLS

The Allen Cognitive Level Screen, or ACLS, is an assessment developed as part of the cognitive disabilities model. This model was first proposed in the late 1960’s by Claudia Allen and colleagues for assessment and intervention with persons whose optimal functional performance appeared to be impacted by possible cognitive impairments.

The first version of the ACLS appeared in 1978 as a Master’s level thesis under the direction of Claudia Allen.  The latest version, the ACLS-5 & LACLS-5 was published in 2007 the result of a 4 year collaboration between Claudia Allen and five experienced clinicians, educators, and researchers.  This version was informed by guidelines in the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing.  It reflects the elevated standards for the ongoing development of the cognitive disabilities model and this important related tool.