New entrance test features eight components

By JOYCE GEM M. CAÑETE

THE EIGHT-COMPONENT Differential Aptitude Test (DAT) replaced the Math-English placement test for the incoming freshmen for the next academic year 2012-2013.

The new entrance exam is proposed upon the recommendation of Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Uniiversities (PAASCU) during the school’s accreditation; and was purchased last year after the approval of Fr. Generous Gonesto, VP for Academic Affairs, through the initiative of Dr. Nenita  L. Villanueva, Director of Guidance Services, and Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz, College Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences  to standardize the said examination.

“The entrance test before [English-Math] was a teacher-made test [while] it [DAT] is standardized. So meaning to say, indi siya Filipino-made test…it is a Foreign-made test but we are able to make a local norm here in the Guidance,” explains Mrs. Joy Robles, psychometrician and guidance counselor of USA Guidance Services Center.

The DAT is basically composed of eight components namely: (1) Verbal Reasoning, (2) Numerical Reasoning, (3) Abstract Reasoning, (4) Perceptual Speed and Accuracy, (5) Mechanical Reasoning, (6) Space Relations, (7) Spelling and (8) Language Usage- all with a total of number of 510 items and with 156 minutes as time allotment; while last year’s placement test consists only of the subjects Math, 50 items, and English, 60 items.

The cut-off scores depend upon the course and vary upon the assignment of each college dean. Mrs. Robles further states, “So far, you have to reach at least 50% of the total number of items per component. Other departments are a little lower.” However, any student who fails to meet the cut-off score has to see the college dean of his chosen course for the school doesn’t give any retake exam.

The new system of entrance exam is expected to determine the capacity of a child and his strength and weaknesses. Thus, evaluation of his potential is made possible. Mrs. Robles points out, “Based on the results of the DAT, a student may be able to decide if he wishes to remain in his chosen course or shift to other courses that matches his potential.”