Can the WRAT-4 Math Computation Subtest Predict the Final Grade in a College-Level Math Course?

Abstract

121 freshman through graduate college students (68 men, 53 women; M age = 23.3 yr., SD = 7.8) in 10 different math classes were administered the Wide Range Achievement Test Fourth Edition (WRAT-4) Math Computation Test in their first (pre-course) class. Predictive validity coefficients were calculated relative to the criterion of the final class grade. The validity coefficient for the pre-course WRAT score was statistically significant. The WRAT-4 Math subtest can be used by instructors to examine performance on specific items to judge the appropriateness of a student's placement in either entry-level math courses. However, high school grades are a better predictor of completing the college curriculum.