Using the California Chemistry Diagnostic Exam (CCDT) as a predictor for success in general chemistry courses

CHED 375

Gregory T. Rushton, grushton@kennesaw.edu and William Maples, gatechbonzogod@yahoo.com. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, 1000 Chastain Road #1203, Kennesaw, GA 30144
The California Chemistry Diagnostic Test (CCDT) is designed by the American Chemical Society to be used as a predictor for success in general chemistry classes. Its universal applicability has not been verified, however, and a study was conducted to determine its usefulness as a diagnostic tool at a midsize southeastern university. Five years of course data were collected and analyzed to see if any relationships between score on the CCDT and end-of-course grade were present. Using logistic regression as the analytical tool, we found that strong correlations between the California Exam scores and success in the class existed. These results were consistent with previous studies that have sought to answer similar questions about other student populations. We also found that factors such as age, gender, and SAT scores to all be statistically significant factors for success in the course. Implications for student advising at the beginning of the course are discussed.