ACT WorkKeys assessment targets indicate the levels of applied academic and technological
skills expected of full completers of certificate, diploma, or associate degree
career/technical education programs. It is recommended that students entering these
programs take the identified WorkKeys assessments, their scores be compared to the
target levels, and individualized targeted instruction be provided based on the
difference between scores and target levels. Students should be assessed again at
program completion, and those scores recorded in their Alabama Community College System Credentials
Document that is received upon graduation.
WorkKeys scores can be used to better match individuals to jobs and to identify
areas where further education and training are needed. Colleges can use scores and
target levels as bases for curricula modification and individualized instruction.
The Department of Postsecondary Education can use aggregate WorkKeys scores as indicators
of the degree to which Workforce 21 imperatives are being achieved, to address
accountability requirements in federal legislation, and to identify professional
development needs. Work Keys results provide information that is important in performance-based
decision making.
Following are WorkKeys target levels for career technical education programs in
the Alabama Community College System. Target levels were identified through a modified Delphi
procedure. The Delphi panels were comprised of industry representatives serving
on career/technical education program advisory committees throughout The Alabama
College System. Target levels were reviewed and approved by the Work Keys Policies
and Procedures Subcommittee, the Student Competency Assessment and Documentation
Committee, and the Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.
Although WorkKeys job profiles, assessments, and targeted instruction are used in
customized services for industry, the target levels in this document should not
be interpreted as substitutes for job profiles.
Work Keys Target Levels
(PDF)