Student Postsecondary Culture Survey: Psychometric Evaluation for Equitable Postsecondary Readiness Measurement

• In Event: Developing and Validating Tools for Student Learning and Experience

Abstract

This study evaluates the Student Postsecondary Culture Survey (SPCS), a 32-item instrument designed to measure high school students’ perceptions of their school’s postsecondary culture across four domains: Advising and Relationships, Equitable Course Access, Outside Support, and Plans, Preparedness, and Expectations. Using data from 8,260 students, we applied graded response models to examine item parameters. Results supported the four-factor structure and demonstrated high internal consistency, with some items exhibiting threshold overlap and positive skew, which are suggestive of acquiescence bias. Findings provide actionable insights for schools implementing postsecondary readiness initiatives and highlight the need for equity-minded survey refinements. This work advances psychometric practices that elevate student voice and inform data-driven, future-focused educational improvement.

Authors

• Rachel S. Martin, OneGoal

• Gina G. Romano, Ivy Tech Community College