Is CASPer the Right Tool for Vet Schools?
Beyond Good Grades: The Search for Well-Rounded Candidates
Vet schools are seeking students who embody more than just academic excellence. They are looking for individuals who are kind, responsible, and adept at teamwork. To this end, some institutions have adopted the CASPer test, an online assessment that evaluates how students handle various scenarios.
The CASPer Conundrum
However, CASPer may not be fair to all applicants. A U.S. vet school used CASPer to screen applicants in 2020 and 2021, setting a minimum score for passage. The results were concerning:
- Male students
- Students from minority backgrounds
- International students
were more likely to be excluded.
Unequal Outcomes
Even among those who passed the minimum score, disparities persisted:
- First-generation students
- Male students
- Minority students
- International students
scored lower on average. Additionally, CASPer scores correlated with students' grades, contrary to the school's intention to identify candidates with diverse strengths.
A Pause for Reflection
Concerned about the potential bias, the school decided to discontinue the use of CASPer. They cited the need for more information on the test's fairness and usefulness in the veterinary field.
The Importance of Fairness
Vet schools strive for a diverse student body, recognizing that a varied group of veterinarians benefits everyone. However, if tools like CASPer inadvertently disadvantage certain groups, they may not be the right fit. The school's decision underscores the importance of careful consideration in student selection processes to ensure equity and opportunity for all.
