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Using CPR to Revive Students GWAR Scores at Cal Poly Pomona. Devon Hackelton California State Polytechnic University Pomona CSU Campus Best Practices Conference 20 October 2006. GWAR History: The GWT. Graduation Writing Test at Cal Poly Pomona
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Using CPR to Revive Students GWAR Scores at Cal Poly Pomona Devon Hackelton California State Polytechnic University Pomona CSU Campus Best Practices Conference 20 October 2006
GWAR History: The GWT • Graduation Writing Test at Cal Poly Pomona • Created in 1977 to satisfy the CSU Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) • Test is 75 minute timed writing on a general knowledge topic
GWT History • Graded by two readers on a 1-6 scale: scores added together • A combined score of 7 or higher is passing.
GWT History • At Cal Poly, between 80-90% of first-time GWT test-takers earn a score of 7 or higher. • However, the pass rate for those who must retake the exam (initially fail) is typically 20% and the pass rate declines for each failed attempt.
GWT History • Cal Poly is one of only four CSU campuses that relies solely on a test to satisfy the GWAR (Humboldt, Long Beach and Northridge are the other three.) • Other CSU campuses offer both a test and a class or just a class to satisfy the GWAR.
The GWT-CPR Program • The GWT-CPR Program at Cal Poly is designed to assist students who have attempted the exam three or more times. • Students who complete the program are eligible to take a second GWT with a 2 hour time limit.
GWT-CPR Program: General Information • The GWT-CPR program is designed to: • Allow students practice in writing timed essays on sample GWT topics. • Read and evaluate other students’ practice essays. • Gain feedback from University Writing Center tutors. • Revise the practice essays to create a portfolio of work.
GWT-CPR Program: General Information • The GWT-CPR Program is an online program that utilizes students’ Cal Poly email account for communications.
GWT-CPR Program: CPR Overview • Students use the CPR website to write five sample GWT essays.
GWT-CPR Program: CPR Overview • Students must also assess three calibration essays, three peer essays and their own work for each assignment. This is conducted on-line.
GWT-CPR Program: Using Blackboard • Blackboard houses the announcements, handouts, Powerpoints, and web links for the program.
GWT-CPR Program: Using Blackboard • A Discussion Board is created for each assignment to provide UWC tutor feedback to the students’ initial essay.
GWT-CPR Program: Using Blackboard • Students submit initial and revised essays to Digital Dropbox to create a portfolio.
GWT-CPR Program: Sample Assignment Sequence • There are five basic steps to each assignment: • Submit essay to CPR website. • Complete the Calibrations and Reviews on the CPR website. • View the student feedback on the CPR website. • Submit a copy of essay and revision plan to Blackboard for UWC tutor feedback. • Revise essay and submit the revision to the Digital Dropbox on Blackboard.
GWT-CPR Successes • Between Fall 2005 and Summer 2006 the GWT-CPR program targeted students who have not passed the GWT at least three times. • Total Enrollees who completed program: 136 • Total Enrollees who passed the GWT: 46 • Pass Rate:34% (about double the typical pass rate for the targeted group)
GWT-CPR Challenges • Program does not have automated technical support. • Some student accounts are inactive due to separation from the university (no Blackboard profile or email) • Second GWT is offered the Tuesday after Final’s Week. • Lack of computer usage for second GWT • Pass rate trends /re-tooling
GWT-CPR Future • Model for CSU-wide EAP Writing Program. • Possible evolution into a bona fide class as alternative to the GWAR. • Possible inclusion of computers for exams
Thanks for learning about the GWT-CPR Program This program is run in cooperation with the University Writing Center, the University Test Center, the Department of Undergraduate Studies and a host of dedicated Cal Poly Pomona staff and faculty!