skip to main content skip to footer

Test Preparation for the GRE Analytical Ability Measure: Differential Effects for Subgroups of GRE Test Takers GREB GRE

Author(s):
Powers, Donald E.
Publication Year:
1986
Report Number:
RR-86-40
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
22
Subject/Key Words:
Graduate Record Examinations Board, African Americans, Analytical Ability Tests, Coaching, Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), Test Preparation

Abstract

A previous study of the initial version of the GRE analytical ability measure (Powers & Swinton, 1984) revealed practically and statistically significant effects of test familiarization on analytical test scores. (Two susceptible item types were subsequently removed from the test.) Data from this study were reanalyzed for evidence of differential effects for subgroups of examinees classified by age, ethnicity, degree aspiration, English language dominance, and performance on other sections of the GRE General Test. The results suggested little, if any, difference among subgroups of examinees with respect to their response to the particular kind of test preparation considered in the study. Within the limits of the data, no particular subgroup appeared to benefit significantly more or significantly less than any other subgroup.

Read More