| Summary: | Education and training are being transformed and reorganised in South Africa. The National Plan has compelled tertiary institutions to think innovatively about the way in which prospective students are selected and channeled for studying at tertiary institutions. Grade 12 results (m-score) still constitute by far the most widely used admission criterion at tertiary institutions. The introduction of an outcomes-based assessment system necessitates the design of alternative selection mechanisms at tertiary institutions since it will no longer be possible to convert grade 12 learners' results into numerical values such as m scores, as symbols will no longer be allocated in the same way as currently known. Current selection mechanisms will have to be replaced by alternative, effective and fair selection and channeling mechanisms. The aim of this study is to develop an alternative mechanism for predicting success among engineering students at the RAU and, possibly, at other tertiary institutions as well. In search of such a model, the following inventories were used: The Study Orientation Questionnaire in Mathematics (SOM). The SOM comprises six fields containing 92 statements that relate to how individuals feel or act regarding aspects of their achievement in mathematics. The Senior Aptitude Test Advanced (SAT L) the SAT L comprises the following ten subtests: Vocabulary, Verbal Reasoning,
Non-Verbal Reasoning (Figures), Calculations, Reading Comprehension, Comparison, Price Controlling, Spatial Visualisation 3-D, Mechanical Insight and Memory (Paragraph). For three consecutive years, first-year engineering students completed both questionnaires (SAT L and SOM) at the beginning of the year, before beginning to attend lectures. Based on first semester marks as well as senior year marks in the follow-up study, students were divided into two groups: successful students and those whose achievements were below par. This study explored the difference in achievement between the two groups. It also investigates the predictive value of the Senior Aptitude Test Advanced (SAT L) and the Study Orientation Questionnaire in Mathematics (SOM) for first-year and senior students. A risk profile for students as well as for the faculty was created. Results of this study conclude that the SOM, certain sub fields of the SAT L and aptitude in mathematics and science can be used for predicting success of engineering students. It can therefore be used as an alternative mechanism for selection of engineering students. === Thesis (Ph.D. (Operational Research))--North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2005.
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