Grades in a college freshman course in finite mathematics were predicted from IQ, high school math grades, college board scores, and high school class ranks. The squared multiple correlation for the full model was .611. (JKS)

Three measures of field dependence were used to determine whether: (1) Mexican American students are more field dependent than Anglo Americans; (2) intercorrelations between the tests are significant and comparable for both cultures; and (3) field dependence significantly affects academic performance. These assumptions were generally not…

Examined the Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning (DIAL) with regard to its effectiveness in predicting school success as determined by subjects' (N=245) first-grade performance on the California Achievement Test (CAT). Found the DIAL concepts subtest to be the most valid single predictor. (Author/ABB)

A study that addressed the question of whether coaching for the MCAT biases the relationship between test performance and medical school performance is described. The criterion used was whether or not a student experienced academic problems in medical school. (MLW)

Examined Estimated Learning Potential (ELP) and IQ scores as predictors of learning task performance in 31 Black and 32 White educable mentally retarded children. ELP did not correlate more highly with performance than did IQ score, yet ELP may be more differentially sensitive to declassifying Blacks as retarded. (NRB)

Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of high school students to calculate the actual improvement in freshman grade point average, college completion, and total years of schooling from colleges' use of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), Crouse compares predictions based on high school rank to argue that the SAT's costs do not justify…

Compared beginning kindergarten subtest scores on Vane Test of Language and Vane Kindergarten Test to Metropolitan Achievement Test Scores in reading and math, Otis-Lennon School Ability Test Index, and placement into special education or high achievement programs following second grade. Results revealed effective predictability of the screening…

The question of which set of scores for those students who retake the Medical College Admission Test yields a better predictive validity is addressed. Five sets were considered as predictors. Twenty-five criteria were used, including grades earned in the freshman and sophomore years. (Author/MLW)

This research investigates the psychometric properties of a Foreign Language Attitude Scale (FLAS). Stepwise regression indicated that the FLAS made a significant contribution to the prediction of FL grades. In a second study, correlations between the FLAS and standardized measures of FL reading and listening proficiency were in the middle .40s.…

Bowdoin College has allowed applicants to submit or withhold SAT scores since 1970. Admissions operations under this policy are reviewed. The validity of the SAT is evaluated, and the academic records of matriculated submitters are compared with the withholders. (Author/MLW)

The McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA) appears to be an effective predictor of school achievement for 31 English-speaking second-grade Mexican-American children. High Pearson product-moment correlations were obtained between MSCA and the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills. (Author/PN)

Results indicate that the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (Revised) is a valid predictor of achievement for children referred for learning disabilities. The verbal Scale IQ, and the Freedom from Distractibility IQ proved especially useful predictors of academic achievement. (JAC)

Explores the practice of basing college admissions decisions on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) over conventional achievement tests. Suggests that the SAT does not reward diligence, and the SAT implies that secondary school instruction is unimportant. Supports changing the admissions system to reward those who learn most in secondary school.…

This study was designed to determine whether an unweighted linear combination of community college students' scores on standardized achievement tests and a measure of motivational constructs derived from Vroom's expectance theory model of motivation was predictive of academic success (grade point average earned during one quarter of an academic…