Math Aptitude Testing
Math skills are integral to many educational and career fields; math is the cornerstone of engineering, physics, economics and business. Math aptitude testing provides an assessment tool for determining where a test taker stands in terms of her computational math abilities. Universities and businesses utilize a variety of math aptitude tests to determine candidate eligibility for certain programs or jobs.
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Function
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Math aptitude tests assess the test taker's math abilities. They can help determine a candidate's qualifications for a particular math-related career field such as business, engineering or education, as well as for entrance into universities or specific university programs. Some math aptitude tests may also be used to determine a student's readiness to progress to an advanced-level math class or his eligibility for math honor society or enrichment program.
Content
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Math aptitude tests assess several areas of mathematical abilities. The content of a math aptitude test largely depends on the specific function or level of the test. For example, a math aptitude test that assesses a student's readiness to advance to an algebra class would assess computational ability as well as problem solving capabilities. However, a math aptitude test used to determine eligibility for an advanced math program at a university may incorporate skills used in trigonometry, calculus and geometry. All math aptitude tests assess basic computational skills. They may also assess pattern recognition, spatial awareness and logic knowledge.
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Types
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Math aptitude tests are typically multiple choice exams with various question types. Some tests may also include a written section in which test takers are required to orally explain the correct way to solve a problem. Other written answers may be simple computations. Standardized math aptitude tests like those included in the SAT Reasoning Test include multiple choice questions as well as write-in questions in which students supply their own answers. Basic math skills tests used for job applications are typically multiple choice exams that cover basic math and logic skills. Informal math aptitude tests used for younger students may include more open-ended questions that allow students to show their work rather than simply supplying an answer.
Benefits
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Math aptitude tests are a convenient and standardized means of assessing mathematical ability. The tests allow employers to weed out job candidates based on insufficient performance on math aptitude tests. Universities can use performance on math aptitude tests to make decisions about applicants who are otherwise neutral in terms of acceptance. Math aptitude testing also relays information to the test taker about her math ability; the student can use the results of the test to target studying in specific weak areas to improve understanding and enhance knowledge.
Considerations
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Though math aptitude tests can be a good indicator of math ability, several other factors may interfere with accurate results. Timed tests are particularly controversial because they tend to value speed rather rather than ability. Students who have adequate math ability and knowledge but poor test taking or time management skills are disadvantaged by standardized math exams that may not accurately measure their capabilities.
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References
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