A correlation study of ACCUPLACER math cut scores, developmental math modules, math prep, and academic preparedness in the shared nursing program at Nicolet Area Technical College

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine the correlation between the current math ACCUPLACER cut score of 80% and the successful completion of the developmental math modules or math prep to academic preparedness in the shared practical nursing program at Nicolet Area Technical College. The study included three cohorts of nurses from June 2001 through June 2003. Seven questions were specifically addressed by the study. These questions were: 1) Of the number of students applying for the practical nursing program, how many achieve the 80% on the ACCUPLACER placement test?, 2) Is there a differential impact on student success on the first nursing math test based on developmental math modules, math prep, or an 80% on the first ACCUPLACER try?, 3) What is the relationship between students’ grades in math prep and their score on the first nursing math exam? 4) What is the relationship of students’ scores before taking the developmental math modules and their score on the first nursing math exam?, 5) What is the relationship of students ACCUPLACER cut score of 80% or better and the score on their first nursing math exam?, 6) What is the relationship of students’ scores before taking math prep or developmental math modules and their score on the first nursing math exam? and, 7) What is the number of practical nursing students that failed the practical nursing program based on inability to pass a nursing math exam on their third attempt?