| Abstract: | The study involved prediction of GPA in a nursing program and NCLEX-RN licensure score following completion of the program. The sample included 155 students who completed and 34 who failed to complete a baccalaureate nursing program for the 1984-1986 years. The best set of predictors of nursing GPA included ACT composite score, anatomy grade, and chemistry grade, R = .73. The best set of predictors of NCLEX-RN included ACT composite score, high school percentile rank, nursing GPA, and chemistry grade, R = .68. Classification of withdrawn and completing groups and also pass and fail NCLEX-RN performance via discriminant analysis provided results comparable to those of previous research; however, residual analysis indicated very large residuals for those withdrawing from the program as well as those who failed the licensure exam. An alternative to discriminant analysis for classifying students is suggested. |
