Does Pre-Admissions Testing Play a Role in Math Performance Among Students Enrolled in a 2-Year Practical Nursing Diploma Program?

Abstract

Pre-admissions tests are typically used to supplement student selection in health care professional programs and therefore the objective of this study was to determine the potential role of pre-admissions testing on Practical Nursing student performance in college level pharmaceutical calculations. The pre-admissions test selected by Sheridan College was the HOAE (Health Occupation Aptitude Examination) exam, and math performance was measured using objective endpoints from two courses that students enrol in within their first and second semesters within the program. Results from both semesters revealed a minimal role for pre-admissions testing on math performance among accepted students. This indicates that student selection decisions should not be solely based on pre-admissions tests and should be augmented with mini-interviews or the requirement of completing a pre-professional semester prior to entry into the program.