In this 12-week course, the physical therapist assistant (PTA) student receives instruction in the skills needed to collect information for plan of care progression. It is said, "That which is measured improves" ~ Peter Drucker. Therefore, in order to measure progress or the lack thereof, PTA students must be proficient in observing and assessing the current state of the patient. The students learn how to assess the quantity and quality of pain; posture; muscle tone; reflexes; muscle strength through manual muscle testing; balance and coordination; arousal; mentation; and cognition. Students also learn how to monitor for potential safety and architectural barriers in the home and community. Each student begins an evidence-based research project by selecting a topic for literature review.