Poster #22 - Keeping Your Cool: Are ACT Scores Biased by Test Anxiety?

• In Event: 81.034 - MTCC Poster Session 20
  In Poster Session: 81.034-4 - Cognition and Assessment Poster Session

Abstract

Debilitating test anxiety is a threat to validity if it biases assessment scores. Moreover, if bias differs between demographic groups, anxiety also raises fairness concerns. This study applied structural equation modeling to investigate possible measurement bias due to anxiety on a college admissions test. Results indicated that ACT scores were not biased by anxiety—in general and for female, male, minority, and White examinees. Anxiety was related to feelings of being unprepared for the test. Health factors such as hours of sleep and eating breakfast were related to reduced anxiety and higher test scores. Results support practical guidance for students, parents, and counselors who want to minimize anxiety, even if it is not likely to affect test performance.

Author

• Jeffrey T. Steedle, ACT, Inc.