Admissions Variables as Predictors of Performance in Basic Science Coursework

Abstract

The basic science courses in occupational therapy programs, though challenging must be mastered if students are to have the necessary foundation for success in theoretical and skills courses. This study was designed to determine the relative contribution of several types of admissions data in predicting the success of junior students in the first term of a human anatomy and physiology course. Overall GPA, science GPA, science credits, scores on the Otis-Lennon Mental Abilities Test and Nelson-Denny Reading Test, and type of school attended were significantly correlated with the grades achieved in the course (46% of the total variance in grades on a multiple-regression analysis). Overall GPA and type of school attended were the best predictors of grades (37% of the variance). This important predictive information can aid in identifying students who require additional academic development.

Keywords

admissions basic sciences occupational therapy education multiple regression analysis

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