Evidence of deficiencies in basic mathematical skills of beginning undergraduates has been documented worldwide. Many different theories have been set out as to why these declines in mathematical competency levels have occurred over time. One such theory is the widening access to higher education which has resulted in a less mathematically…

Multivariate analyses of questionnaires and standardized test data indicated that performance at age eight could be predicted with considerable accuracy by a combination of teachers' ratings of home and personal characteristics at age five. (Author/PN)