Placement tests the placement testing process

Conclusion
Clearly the problem of how best to deal with underprepared math students at the post-secondary level is as thorny and long standing as many problems in education. The combination of placement tests and remedial mathematics courses is a well-established process that many post -secondary institutions provide as a solution to this problem. But is it an effective one? The research evidence reviewed in this paper, and similar studies, indicate that it may provide a reasonable level of success for some students in some contexts. However, if placement is based solely on the results of math skills tests without considering significant noncognitive factors, research suggests that a high number of unsatisfactory placements may occur. Further there is concern that this process perpetuates social, gender and ethnic biases, and discourages enrollment. Then, how should we proceed? It is my view that retaining all first-year students, regardless of background in the first-year math course, is not an option. The pace and level of these courses quickly frustrates and discourages underprepared students. Attempting to remediate these students in regular class time is not possible for most, and extra help in off-class hours usually suffices for only a few of those who need help. Under these circumstances, I think the only suitable option is to employ a mathematics placement test that identifies those who are underprepared, and to offer suitable remedial courses which provide the necessary mathematics upgrading. But this process should be careful, considerate and flexible. Careful - in the selection, evaluation and ongoing review of the placement test(s) itself, and in selection and training of faculty to teach remedial courses. Considerate - of the other factors in the students' situations. Flexible - in the timing and mode of delivery of both the placement test and the remedial courses. Students should have the option to take the test before the regular program begins and be able to do a retest if they wish. Remedial courses should be available in the summer and at night at a reasonable number of sites.