Standardized Testing Practices: Effect on Graduation and NCLEX® Pass Rates

The relation between standardized test scores and NCLEX-RN failure

“…Testing and remediation policies need to be developed based on the individual student and program needs. This is also supported by previous research studies by Harlan (2017); [6] Hunsicker & Chitwood (2018); [7] Randolph (2017), [8] Stonecypher et al (2015). [9] Finally, an increase in NCLEX-RN passage rates will help schools of nursing meet their program objectives and accreditation requirements.…”

“…[5] There is controversial literature regarding the utilization of standardized tests as high-stakes testing in nursing programs. [6][7][8][9] According to these studies, positive consequences of standardized testing such as feedback, remediation, guidance, and curriculum modifications are all keys to increasing student success. Harlan conducted a single group pretest/post-test quasi-experimental design which revealed an increase in standardized testing exam scores with the use of remediation between each attempt.…”

Accuracy and completeness are required: A response to Dreher et al (2019)

“…In addition, Randolph examined the association between use of exit exams with a cut‐score (with corresponding consequences) and NCLEX pass rates and on‐time graduation rates among 89% ( n = 34) of Arizona's approved nursing programs. Randolph found no association between programs’ use of exit exams with cut‐scores and either NCLEX outcomes or on‐time graduation rates. In fact, when NCLEX outcomes and on‐time graduation rates were combined into a single index of nursing program quality, programs not using exit exams with cut‐score consequences achieved better outcomes than those that used exit exams with cut‐score consequences ( t = 2.43; df = 31; P = .02).…”

“…First, Nibert and Young 6 wrote, "The HESI Exit Exam (E 2 ) is a secure, comprehensive examination that has demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in predicting NCLEX success as well as identifying those students at risk of failing the NCLEX. [29][30][31] " The papers cited by Nibert and Young 6 in the superscripted reference numbers are Lauchner et al, 5 Hanks et al, 14 and Newman, Britt, and Lauchner. 15 So, the HESI Exit Exam is not designed to test only for passing but rather, assumes a role in estimating both the probability of passing and the risk of failing the NCLEX-RN.…”

Admission Assessment: Linking a Standardized Admission Exam to Nursing Program Outcomes

“…However, other authors have supported the careful use of these assessment tools as a way to promote student success. These assessment tests could become a significant predictor, along with other measures, of education program quality (English & Gordon, 2008;Harding, 2010;Lavandera et al, 2011;Morrison, Adamson, Nibert, & Hsia , 2008;Morrison, Free, & Newman, 2008;Murray, Merriman, & Adamson, 2008;Randolph, 2017;Sosa & Sethares, 2015). These other common measures of program outcomes include completion rates, program attrition rates and, in some cases, performance on exit exams and performance on National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN ® ).…”