The Usefulness of ACT Scores in Predicting Achievement and Attrition Among Disadvantaged and Regular Freshmen: A Survey and Study.

N

194

Academic Achievement; College Entrance Examinations; College Freshmen; College Students; Disadvantaged Youth; Dropout Characteristics; Dropout Rate; Grade Prediction; Higher Education; Low Income Groups; Predictive Measurement; Racial Differences; Scores; Standardized Tests; Test Bias

The purposes of this study were to determine (1) the usefulness of ACT composite scores in assessing and predicting achievement and attrition of disadvantaged and regular freshmen at the University of Nebraska at Omaha during the 1972-73 academic year, and (2) the effectiveness of a special program in keeping low income students in school during their freshman year. Factors considered were: ACT scores, college grades, race, sex, socioeconomic status, financial aid, and employment. It was found that ACT scores were effective predictors of college grades among white students, but not among black students, regardless of income level. ACT scores were also effective predictors of attrition/persistence only among regular students in large samples, college grades being more potent for this purpose. The special program appeared more successful than the regular program in preventing attrition, especially among men and blacks; and receiving financial aid was better than not receiving financial aid. (Author/BW)

1977

ED128429