The Validity of the LSAT Measuring Merit
Numerous works have been published about the validity of LSAT. This study spotlights African Americans, but also mentions why other minority groups score lower on standardized test in general and the LSAT in particular. Previous research has revealed that tests similar to the LSAT are biased because the test scores reflect past opportunity. Self-fulfilling prophecies and the stereotype-threat, fear that poor performance will confirm stereotypes about a student's ethnic group, are also other reasons for the poor performance. The research then highlights the misuse of standardized tests like the LSAT to predict future academic performance. Finally, the study concludes that, while the LSAT serves its function moderately, law schools should place less emphasis on the test because its ability to predict the quality of students varies and is slightly better than random. The LSAT, which counts more than a four-year UGPA, is unable to predict future performance, career satisfaction, or the fulfillment of law schools' democratic and educational missions.
School:
Pennsylvania State University
Department:
Political Science
Research Advisor:
James Anderson
Department of Research Advisor:
Educational Policy Studies
Year of Publication:
2005