Trainee Selection and Placement

DOE-HDBK-1205-97

The most common test type for the performance-based training environment is the

performance test. These tests are normally developed by the facility training department

and are used to qualify, requalify, and test the progress of trainees for a specific task, job, or

position. A pass/fail system is based on a preestablished cutoff score. Most tests of this

type are not designed to identify unique trainee strengths or weaknesses but can be used for

this purpose.

2.2 Trainee Selection and Placement

Tests are useful for trainee selection and placement. Entrance tests are sometimes used as

a basis for the initial decision for hiring an employee or for waiving specific job training

requirements after that employee begins work. Test scores may also indicate the need for

remedial training. Many facilities use aptitude tests for placement of trainees in training

programs. Some use interest inventories and psychological evaluations to aid in job

placement. If a facility uses placement tests, the facility management, personnel

department, and training staff should make placement decisions based, in part upon test

scores.

2.3 Trainee Motivation

Tests are powerful motivators. Trainee study habits can be affected by test schedules.

When tests are given on a daily or weekly basis, trainees may study more in anticipation of

those tests. Likewise, when there is only an end-of-course test, many trainees may

postpone studying until just before the test. Trainees are also generally motivated by the

feedback that a test score provides. Low test scores could raise trainees' anxiety levels,

which if properly channeled, can result in increased concentration and study.

2.4 Instructional Improvement

Test results can provide constructive feedback regarding the effectiveness of a training

program. If an instructor fails to adequately cover a topic in a classroom presentation or a

laboratory exercise, lower test results may reveal the omission. Uniformly high scores for a

topic or subject area may indicate that instruction was effective, and can signify the

readiness of the trainees for more detailed material or for the next step in the training