Harnessing Motivational Science to Promote Equitable College Access Through Enhancing the Test-Optional Admission Decision Process

• In Event: Poster Session 1
  In Poster Session: Motivation in Education SIG Poster Session 1

Abstract

Test-optional admission to higher education is gaining popularity as it promotes college access for students from groups that traditionally do not perform well on standardized tests (STs). However, dropping STs leaves high-school GPA (HSGPA) as the single indicator for applicants’ potential college retention and success. This paper describes the development of a measure of applicants’ motivational-developmental attributes to supplement HSGPA in admission decisions in a large urban public university. We describe the “Temple Option” initiative, the process of developing the measure, data from the first year of administration, and considerations of the value as well as the risks involved in using motivation as a criterion in college admission.

Authors

• Avi Kaplan, Temple University

• William N Black, Temple University

• James W Degnan, Temple University

• Karin West Mormando, Temple University

• Joseph P. Du Cette, Temple University

• Annemarie H. Hindman, Temple University

• Will J. Jordan, Temple University

• Yasuko Kanno, Temple University