Test Mastery Inclusion Program Extended to All Registered Exam Candidates

[Link] In January 2023, ASWB began partnering with FifthTheory, a minority-owned firm with expertise in high-stakes testing and occupational assessment. As part of this collaboration, ASWB and FifthTheory launched a pilot initiative that offered access to the Test Mastery Inclusion (TMI) program to every test-taker who was unsuccessful on a licensing exam. The program includes a research-based assessment and resources designed to help individuals taking a high-stakes exam to reflect on and develop essential mindset competencies.

Due to the demonstrated value of the program and based on survey findings from an assessment questionnaire sent to participants, ASWB has decided to expand the offering to all registered candidates.

Piloting the collaboration

At the end of the yearlong pilot period, FifthTheory researchers reported on findings describing the test mastery characteristics of ASWB test-takers. In addition, ASWB surveyed the participants about the usefulness of the program, receiving responses from 11% of participants. A large majority (72.5%) reported a positive experience with the self-assessment, choosing neutral, agree, or strongly agree. Most (60.3%) also chose neutral, agree, or strongly agree when asked if the self-assessment report helped them understand their test mastery mindset. In addition, 45% of respondents chose neutral, agree, or strongly agree when asked if they felt better prepared to retake the exam.

According to the report from FifthTheory, "This initiative benefits both test-takers preparing to retake the licensing exam and ASWB in its work to better understand the test-taking mindset and provide test-takers with evidence-based resources on their licensure journeys."

Test mastery findings

Of the 8,866 ASWB test-takers who completed the TMI assessment questionnaire, 83% had scores that indicated a need to further develop their test preparation and/or readiness. According to the TMI framework, the test preparation and test readiness dimensions each have specific competencies that contribute to an overall test mastery mindset. Per FifthTheory's research, a test-prepped individual demonstrates motivation and responsibility leading up to exam day. A test-ready individual exhibits confidence and resiliency during testing.