Program Characteristics and Certification Examination Pass Rates: A Statistical Analysis of BACB-Published 2015-2019...

Area of Science:

• Behavior analysis
• Educational assessment
• Professional certification

Background:

• The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) provides annual data on pass rates for verified course sequences (VCS).
• Understanding factors influencing VCS examination pass rates is crucial for program quality assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze BACB examination pass rate data from 2015-2019.
• To explore the relationship between program mode, candidate volume, and examination success.
• To identify potential indicators of program quality based on pass rates.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of BACB-published data from 2015-2019.
• Correlation analysis between the number of first-time candidates and examination pass rates.
• Comparative analysis of pass rates and candidate numbers across different program modes (campus, hybrid, distance).

Main Results:

• A weak negative correlation was found between the number of first-time candidates and pass rates.
• Statistically significant differences in mean pass rates were observed across program modes.
• Campus and hybrid programs exhibited higher mean pass rates compared to distance programs.
• Distance programs had a higher mean number of passing first-time candidates than campus programs.

Conclusions:

• Program mode is associated with varying examination pass rates and candidate volumes.
• The number of first-time candidates may serve as a potential, albeit weak, inverse indicator of program success.
• Further research is needed to establish robust external validity and definitive indicators of program quality.