CONVERTING TEST DATA TO COUNSELING INFORMATION: SYSTEM TRIAL‐WITH FEEDBACK¹

Abstract

A computer‐based system for converting test data into locally‐validated counseling information was developed and field tested with potential vocational school students. Two data‐information conversion procedures were used: similarity (centour) scores based on discriminant analyses and success estimates based on experience tables. Longitudinal validation analyses involving over 1500 students and 20 interest and aptitude measures provided the empirical base for the data‐information conversion procedures. Similarity scores and success estimates were developed for each of the 12 vocational program areas in which the students enrolled. These reporting procedures were field tested with 1000 students enrolled in 12 high schools, Illustrations of the similarity score reporting procedures are provided along with summaries of student reactions to these procedures.

Project CHOICE: Validity of Interest and Ability Measures for Student Choice of Vocational Program

“…Project CHOICE addressed the possibility noted by Pucel. Instead of using specialized statistical procedures to suggest vocational programs for exploration (e.g., see Prediger, 1971;Pucel, Nelson, Asche, & Faurot, 19721, it applied computer-based decision rules that simulate a counselor interpretation of interest and ability scores. Project CHOICE was jointly conducted by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and American College Testing (ACT).…”