| A primary concern of medical technology educators is the selection and retention of students with potential for success in medical technology programs and on the American Society of Clinical Pathologist's certification examination. Identification of reliable predictors would aid in better selection and decreased attrition.;The following conclusions were reached as a result of the study: (1) There is no significant difference between traditional and nontraditional (as defined by age) students in successful completion of a medical technology program and a passing score on the ASCP certification examination. (2) That international students have a higher fail rate on the certification examination than do American born students. (3) The beginning and professional GPA are valuable predictors of success in medical technology programs and on the certification examination. (4) There is not a significant difference in the pass/fail rate of men and women on the certification examination. (5) Neither full or part time work, marital status, or family obligations significantly affect the success of a student in a medical technology program or on the certification examination.;Recommendations are for additional investigation of the high fail rate of international students. In addition, videodisc technology, computer program materials, self-instructional books, teleconference, and extension coursework should be considered as supplemental forms of learning. Satellite clinical sites should be considered to facilitate student retention in rural areas.;The purpose of this study was to identify factors affecting the scores of traditional and nontraditional students (as defined by age) of medical technology on the ASCP Board of Registry examination. Data was collected on 451 students by the three medical technology programs in Kansas during the period from 1981-1990. All data was taken from program records with the exception of work status. Variables that were considered included age, gender, family obligations, full and part time work, nationality, beginning GPA, and professional GPA. Statistical analysis of all variables and how they affected the initial pass/fail score on the ASCP certification examination were performed. |
