Measuring Noncognitive Variables: Improving Admissions, Success and Retention for Underrepresented Students

Co-published in association with Big Picture Learning.Measuring Noncognitive Variables: Improving Admissions, Success, and Retention for Underrepresented Students is written for admissions professionals, counselors, faculty and advisers who admit, teach, or work with students during the admissions process and post-enrollment period. It brings together theory, research and practice related to noncognitive variables in a practical way by using assessment methods provided at no cost. Noncognitive variables have been shown to correlate with the academic success of students of all races, cultures, and backgrounds. Noncognitive variables include personal and social dimensions, adjustment, motivation, and student perceptions, rather than the traditional verbal and quantitative areas (often called cognitive) typically measured by standardized tests.Key Features include:* Models that raise concepts related to innovation, diversity and racism in proactive ways* Examples of admission and post-enrollment applications that show how schools and programs can use noncognitive variables in a variety of ways * Additional examples from foundations, professional associations, and K-12 programs* An overview of the limitations of traditional assessment methods such as admission tests, grades, and courses takenEducation professionals involved in the admissions process will find this guide effectively informs their practice. This guide is also appropriate as a textbook in a range of courses offered in Higher Education and Student Affairs Masters and PhD programs.

Table of Contents:
Foreword by David Kalsbeek Preface Acknowledgments Introduction 1. The Innovation Process 2. Traditional Admissions Measures 3. Noncognitive Measures 4. Self-Concept and Realistic Self-Appraisal 5. Understands and Knows How to Navigate the System and Racism 6. Long-Term Goals, Strong Support Person, Leadership, Community, and Nontraditional Learning 7. Additional Measures of Diversity 8. The Waves of Change Find Many Shores 9. The Future Exhibit 1 Appendices References Index

About the Author :
William Sedlacek is Professor Emeritus at the University of Maryland. David Kalsbeek.

Review :
"Adding appropriate noncognitive variables, as suggested in this book, may strengthen the predictive power and validity of high-stakes measures. Noncognitive variables can help teachers understand and evaluate students’ academic performance, adjust their curriculum, and plan for individualized instruction and assessment. In addition to informing teachers, noncognitive variables can provide important information to college and university admissions personnel. To make appropriate decisions, admissions programs need comprehensive assessments able to provide information about a person’s cognitive abilities and noncognitive characteristics. Without noncognitive measures, admissions programs base their decisions on information that is truly incomplete, and in the process overlook many potentially successful students. As the author argues, valid and unbiased predictors of college success are crucial for all students, but especially for minority students who may be disproportionately disadvantaged by biased assessments. Often called the 'Father of Noncognitive Variables,' William Sedlacek is an internationally renowned scholar who has conducted over 40 years of research informing the conceptual definition and use of noncognitive variables. In its nine chapters, this book discusses important subjects related to noncognitive measurement. Collectively, these chapters paint a picture of the current state of noncognitive variables in education, including theory, research, and many practical examples. This book has the potential to impact students and institutions all over the world and should be read by teachers, admissions programs, and all others interested in enrolling, assessing, and retaining diverse students." Teachers College Record “William Sedlacek, the 'Father of Non-Cognitive Variables' in higher education, has impacted millions of college students around the world. With over 40 years of research, his new book reveals the importance of noncognitive skill measurement and development. This is a must-read for every institution and individual genuinely interested in strategically engaging and retaining diverse groups." Connie Tingson-Gatuz, PhD, Vice President for Student Affairs and Michigan Integration Madonna University "Bill’s latest book develops one of the strongest cases I have seen presented for multiple measures of assessments for college admissions. He shows how the non-cognitive variables can be successfully used to create an environment for fairness that support students coming from less traditional backgrounds including women, people of color, international students and LGBTQ students. At Big Picture Learning Schools we have been using his research for decades turning it into practice that supports both school and student-driven management for success in high school and post-secondary. This book will help all high school staff develop stronger programs around post-secondary transitions and beyond." Elliot Washor, Ed.D., Co-founder Big Picture Learning “Through Measuring Noncognitive Variables Bill Sedlacek continues to display why he is the eminent leader in exploring the usefulness of noncognitive variables by highlighting the dangers of using 'standard' assessment models across social groups and associated experiences. Social justice meets student evaluation in this masterpiece. Considering the changes occurring in the United States of America in 2017, there is no better time for this book than now.” Ryan C. Holmes, Assistant Vice President for Student Support The University of Texas at El Paso