Use of standardized test scores to predict success in a computer applications course

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to see if a relationship existed between American College Testing (ACT) scores (i.e., English, reading, mathematics, science reasoning, and composite) and student success in a computer applications course at a Mississippi community college. The study showed that while the ACT scores were excellent predictors of success, the ACT scores did not predict nonsuccess. Inclusion in the nonsuccess group is only slightly accounted for in the models by use of either ACT composite score or ACT subscores; therefore, there must be other factors that affect the student outcome in the course. However, the odds ratio indicated that for every one point of increase in ACT composite score, a student is 18% more likely to be successful in the computer applications course. Likewise, a student is 11.9% more likely to be successful in the computer applications course for every one point of increase on ACT science reasoning score.