Few CC Students Prep for Math Placement Exam

According to data from the American Association of Community Colleges, only a third of entering students study for the mathematics placement exam. In most colleges, a poor score on this test channels students into remedial math classes that cost them and taxpayers money without earning college credit. Research indicates as many as 40% of these students never complete college as they fail to pass these classes. These classes cover high school algebra, a form of mathematics required in only 5% of jobs that require "some college."

Measuring Knowledge that Matters in the Workplace

Interesting report on the PBS Newshour about how employers find that A's in school fail to predict solid performance on the job. The misalignment is particularly acute in school mathematics. Most jobs require mathematics taught through middle school. About 5% of jobs require higher mathematics, and the job growth is not in those jobs. Employers requiring middle skills are reporting more predictive success based on ACT's Workkeys Assessment than diplomas and GPAs.