A Research-Driven Framework
The Personal & Academic Competency Evaluation (PACET) is a research-driven diagnostic framework designed to assess individual learners’ cognitive tendencies, personal attributes, and academic alignment. Unlike traditional assessments that focus on knowledge recall or standardized academic achievement, PACET offers a strength-based, non-evaluative approach rooted in educational psychology, personality theory, and validated psychometric instruments.
Grounded in Validated Theories
Holland’s Theory of Vocational Personality (RIASEC)
Applies to: PACET UndergraduatePACET uses a structured, item-based version of this typology to determine which environments, fields of study, and academic responsibilities align best with the student’s core traits.
Reference: Holland, J. L. (1997). Making vocational choices.
Big Five Personality Traits (OCEAN Model)
Applies to: PACET GRADThe Big Five is embedded into constructs related to self-regulation, coping style, academic perseverance, and emotional stability, which correlate with success at the graduate level.
Reference: McCrae, R. R., & Costa, P. T. (1999). A Five-Factor theory of personality.
Self-Efficacy Theory
Applies to: PACET GRADDrawing on Albert Bandura's work, PACET evaluates a graduate student's confidence in their ability to succeed across domains like research, time management, and autonomy.
Reference: Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control.
Coping Theory & Emotional Regulation
Applies to: PACET GRADIncorporates constructs from Lazarus and Folkman’s theory to identify adaptive coping responses, offering tailored suggestions to promote resilience in high-pressure environments.
Reference: Lazarus, R.S. & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, Appraisal, and Coping.
Grit & Perseverance
Applies to: PACET GRADIncludes a measurement of grit, defined by Angela Duckworth as sustained passion and perseverance toward long-term goals—essential for thesis completion and independent research.
Reference: Duckworth, A. L., et al. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion...
Self-Compassion & Academic Resilience
Applies to: PACET GRADBased on Kristin Neff's framework, this section addresses self-kindness and mindfulness to combat perfectionism, self-criticism, and burnout risk in graduate settings.
Reference: Neff, K. D. (2003). The development and validation of a scale...
Assessment Structure & Delivery
PACET Undergraduate
Assessment Time: ~20 minutes
- Format: Scenario-based and Likert-scale personality inventory
- Outcome: Primary and secondary personality types, suggested programs, and career tracks
- Output: 8–10 page personalized report with RIASEC analysis and career mapping
PACET GRAD
Assessment Time: ~20-35 minutes
- Format: Multi-domain Likert-scale items covering academic and psychological dimensions
- Outcome: Insight into strengths, research readiness, and preferred advisory styles
- Output: 10–12 page personalized narrative report with targeted strategies and resources
Psychometric Integrity
Assessments are continuously monitored for internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and construct validity. Language is inclusive, bias-reduced, and adapted for cross-cultural applicability.
Outcome & Application
The PACET system is not a clinical diagnostic. It provides developmental guidance, self-directed learning strategies, and actionable recommendations for educational planning.
Ethical Standards & Privacy
Data collection is governed by GDPR and COPPA principles. Data is never shared with third parties, and students retain full control over how their results are used.