New ACT Research

 Millions of students take the ACT test every year. This test helps assess college readiness and helps institutions determine eligibility. Many people do not realize that ACT also provides research and solutions designed to help students, educators, and institutions succeed.

ACT research provides valuable information about students and their learning habits. This helps both students and educators develop strategies for success. The newest ACT research focuses on college readiness and college retention. The new research also includes valuable information about an educator’s ability to make data-informed decisions.

ACT College Readiness Benchmarks

The ACT test measures a series of College Readiness Benchmarks. These benchmarks help predict a student’s success during their first-year of college. The benchmarks are based on core subjects taken by first-year college students.

Subjects with benchmarks include English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, STEM, and ELA. Students that meet ACT test benchmarks have a 50% chance of earning a B grade or higher and a 75%-80% chance of earning a C grade or higher on corresponding college courses.

Students that receive a B grade or higher during their first year of college are far more likely to complete a postsecondary degree.

The Effects of Psychosocial Factors on Retention Status

ACT’s new research suggests that psychosocial factors such as academic discipline, commitment to college, social connections, and academic self-confidence can predict a student’s retention status. The information provided by this research can help educators identify students that are more likely to drop out. This allows for early intervention, and increased retention rates.

Obstacles Educators Face When Making Data-Driven Decisions

 New research by ACT identifies the most common factors affecting the ability of educators to make data-driven decisions. Although the research suggests that educators have access to large amounts of data, many lack the time, technical support, and skills to properly utilize it.

It’s extremely important that educators focus on improvement. When decisions are based on data, educators can effectively respond to problems, create new teaching methods, and advance skill sets faster.

Preparing for College

ACT provides a wide range of resources and information, specially designed to help students and educators excel, and institutions identify qualifying as well as at-risk students.

The ACT test is a useful tool for determining college readiness. Students are strongly encouraged to prepare for this important test. Young Scholars Circle offers a variety of ACT prep courses designed to help students succeed.

Please contact us for more information about the ACT test.