Stemler Authors Article on University Admission Test Prediction

An article by Steven Stemler, assistant professor of psychology, is published in Vol. 47, Issue 1 of Educational Psychologist.

In the article, “What Should University Admissions Tests Predict?” Stemler argues that because colleges and universities emphasize the development of a broad range of capabilities in their students—beyond just mastery of specific academic content—admissions tests should also capture a range of essential student qualities. The article includes a review of these common capabilities, such as cultural competence and ethical reasoning, which colleges and universities purport to seek and develop in their students. It then presents a conceptual model outlining what outcomes admissions tests ought to predict, and considers whether testing should be based on an applicant’s aptitude, ability or achievement in these essential skill areas.