| Abstract: |
In fall 1983, a survey was conducted to determine the extent of basic skills assessment of incoming students conducted in Illinois public community colleges. Questionnaires were sent to 50 community colleges, requesting information on the skills assessed, the time of assessment, and the instruments used. Study findings, based on responses from 44 institutions, included the following: (1) 42 colleges assessed reading skills, 36 assessed writing skills, and 41 assessed math skills; (2) at least half of the colleges conducted the skill assessments prior to registration; (3) test scores were used to recommend placement in specific classes by 20 colleges for reading classes, 15 for writing classes, and 21 for math classes; (4) placement in specific classes on the basis of test scores was mandatory at 18 colleges for reading, 16 for writing, and 16 for math; and (5) five colleges assessed English skills, two assessed language use skills, and three assessed English as a Second Language skills. A list of test instruments used, the survey instrument, and a list of responding colleges are included in the study report. (HB) |