Correlation between academic performance and NBCE part I scores at a chiropractic college

Area of Science:

• Chiropractic Education
• Medical Education Assessment

Background:

• The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Part 1 exam is a critical benchmark for chiropractic students.
• Predicting success on standardized professional licensing exams is essential for curriculum development and student support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between pre-National Board assessments and NBCE Part 1 scores.
• To identify specific academic areas that best predict performance on the NBCE Part 1 examination.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 24 chiropractic students preparing for the NBCE Part 1 exam was studied.
• Pre-assessment scores across all NBCE Part 1 subject categories were compared to actual exam results.
• Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were employed to identify significant predictors.

Main Results:

• Six of 14 pre-assessment correlations with NBCE Part 1 scores were statistically significant.
• Mean anatomy and mean chemistry scores emerged as the strongest predictors in multiple linear regression analysis.
• Regression coefficients for anatomy and chemistry were comparable, indicating similar predictive power.

Conclusions:

• Pre-assessment scores in anatomy and chemistry are significant predictors of NBCE Part 1 performance.
• Targeted academic preparation in anatomy and chemistry may enhance student success on the NBCE Part 1 exam.
• These findings can inform curriculum adjustments and targeted interventions in chiropractic programs.