ACT Launches WorkKeys® Readiness Indicator Tool
January 11, 2010
Instrument Determines Individual Readiness for Testing or Training
IOWA CITY, IOWA – January 11, 2010 – ACT, the nation’s leading source of workplace skills assessments, announced today the launch of an Internet-based tool designed to estimate an individual’s readiness to take three WorkKeys foundational skills assessments.
The WorkKeys Readiness Indicator is designed to estimate an individual’s likelihood of achieving a minimal level score or above on three of the WorkKeys assessments: Reading for Information, Applied Mathematics, and Locating Information. The online instrument allows individuals to complete actual WorkKeys test items in an abbreviated format in a proctored setting. They receive a score report indicating their readiness for the full-length assessments or suggesting specific skill improvement training to help them qualify in the future. The Readiness Indicator is not a substitute for any full-length WorkKeys assessment.
Decades of research show that the foundational skills measured by these three WorkKeys assessments are critical to on-the-job performance. Successful completion of the assessments qualifies individuals for a National Career Readiness Certificate issued and registered by ACT and recognized by employers across the nation. A Level 3 score on the three assessments is the threshold level for a Bronze National Career Readiness Certificate; scores of 4 qualify for a Silver certificate; 5, a Gold certificate; and 6, a Platinum certificate.
“Now more than ever, American businesses need a strong, skilled workforce, and job seekers need a nationally recognized credential that provides proof of job skills,” said Martin Scaglione, president and chief operating officer of ACT’s Workforce Development Division. “Workforce offices and community colleges across the nation have asked ACT to develop this tool to help identify those who are ready to test for a workplace skills credential and those who may benefit from additional training. It’s all about getting the right people on the right path to success.”
Most individuals will complete the 28 test items in the WorkKeys Readiness Indicator in 30 minutes or less. The new tool will be available online at participating workforce offices, community colleges, and ACT testing centers across the nation.
For more information about the WorkKeys Readiness Indicator (click here).
About ACT
Founded in 1959, ACT is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping people achieve education and workplace success. ACT provides a broad array of assessments, research, information, and program management solutions in the areas of education and workforce development. Each year, ACT serves millions of people—nationally and internationally—in middle and high schools, colleges, professional associations, businesses, and government agencies. For more information about ACT, visit www.act.org.
