The role of the Learning Potential Computerised Adaptive Test (LPCAT) in the vocational guidance assessment of adolescents

Abstract

In the present study, the role of learning potential assessment as part of cognitive assessment for vocational guidance was investigated for a population (N=262) of junior secondary students. Mean scores, distribution of scores, inter-correlation of scores and predictive validity were evaluated. The mean learning potential scores indicated a level of general reasoning and learning potential higher than the academic level of the students at the time of assessment and the distribution of the scores indicated tertiary level potential for some learners. Statistically significant correlations were found between the LPCAT learning potential scores and three sub-tests of the Differential Aptitude Test (Form R) (DAT-R) namely Verbal Reasoning, Comparison and Spatial Perception. Furthermore, all cognitive scores showed statistically significant correlations with the aggregate end-of-year academic performance in English, Life Orientation and Mathematics. Based on the results of this study, verbal reasoning is a better predictor of aggregate academic performance than learning potential based on non-verbal figural reasoning. A total of 35.3 per cent of the variance in academic performance was predicted by combining learning potential and aptitude scores. The unique explanation of variance in academic performance by means of the LPCAT post-test results alone was 12.9 per cent, while for Verbal Reasoning aptitude alone it was 29.2 per cent.