Reevaluating the Practical Exam Scoring System in Sports Sciences: A Comprehensive Study

SSRII Public Relations: Dr. Mohammad Shariatzadeh, Associate Professor at the Sports Science Research Institute of Iran (SSRC) and Principal Investigator of the study, has highlighted the need to revise the scoring formula and weighting system of the practical entrance exam for sports sciences. His remarks come following an extensive analysis of over 60,000 candidates’ test scores spanning 2005 to 2017.

According to Dr. Shariatzadeh, the study aimed to enhance the sensitivity of the exam and improve its ability to distinguish between high-performing and low-performing candidates. To achieve this, researchers examined the correlation between students’ practical course grades and their practical entrance exam scores by analyzing academic records from three state universities offering undergraduate sports sciences programs. The final sample included 149 female and 135 male graduates, who collectively completed 35 practical courses throughout their studies.

Key Findings
    •    Male students demonstrated higher average grades in practical courses.
    •    Regression analysis confirmed that practical exam scores significantly predicted students’ undergraduate practical course performance.
    •    A strong correlation was observed between the exam components and students’ final practical course averages for both genders.
    •    Factor analysis was employed to revise and update the scoring system, ensuring greater accuracy and fairness in evaluating candidates.

This research, conducted by Dr. Mohammad Shariatzadeh, in collaboration with Dr. Ali Kashi, Dr. Anoushirvan Kazemnejad, and other colleagues, offers a data-driven approach to optimizing candidate assessment in sports sciences.

For further inquiries, interested individuals can contact Dr. Shariatzadeh via email at shariatzadeh.sport@gmail.com.