Research challenges CLT’s reliability for college acceptance in Iowa

A draft report presented to the Iowa Board of Regents has recommended excluding a standardized test, the Classic Learning Test (CLT), from the admissions formula for state universities. The report suggests using the CLT for individual admissions decisions but not incorporating it into the Regent Admission Index until more data is available to assess its effectiveness.

The Academic Affairs Committee of the board initiated research on the CLT in September, leading to the formation of an admissions study team. The team, along with experts from Iowa State University, found that students taking the CLT were not representative of those seeking admission to state universities. Additionally, there was a lack of evidence linking the test to student outcomes or course placements.

The report highlighted that the current admissions formula, which includes factors like grade-point average, ACT or SAT scores, and completed high school courses, has been successful in predicting academic performance and graduation rates. However, the CLT’s validity and comparability to traditional standardized tests like the ACT and SAT were questioned due to limited data and methodology issues.

While some smaller Iowa colleges accept CLT scores, the report emphasized the need for further research on the test’s correlation with student outcomes, especially at public universities. Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the CLT, with Rep. Sharon Steckman questioning its content and relevance in high school education.

The report’s recommendations have been endorsed by the Council of Provosts and will be discussed at the upcoming board meeting. The future of the CLT in Iowa’s higher education system remains uncertain as stakeholders continue to evaluate its place in admissions decisions.