Criterion-Related Validity of Selected Achievement Measures in the Prediction of a Passing or Failing Criterion on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Nursing Students in a Two-Year Associate Degree Program

Abstract

For a sample of nearly 350 nursing students in a 2-year associate degree program, estimates of the predictive validity coefficients in relation to a criterion of passing or failing the National Council Licensure Examination were found for (a) grades earned in each of 18 courses (eight nursing theory courses, six nursing laboratory courses, and four biology-related courses) as well as in composites of nursing theory and nursing laboratory courses, and (b) grade point averages received prior to admission to the program and in the community college itself. It was concluded that the most valid predictor was the grade point average earned in a composite of eight theory or didactic courses in nursing. Addition of other predictors to this one composite variable added no statistically significant contribution to validity. A factor analysis revealed a distinct separation in the performance requirements of nursing theory and nursing laboratory courses.