Gathering Behavioral Samples Through a Computerized and Standardized Assessment Center Exercise

Abstract

Although computerization and standardization might make assessment center (AC) exercises easier to administer and score, drawbacks are that most of such exercises have a static and multiple-choice format. This study reports on the development and initial validation of a computerized and standardized AC exercise that simulates key managerial tasks. This AC exercise capitalizes not only on the benefits of computerization and standardization (efficiency and cost savings) but at the same time aims to avoid their usual drawbacks (lower response fidelity and interactivity). The composite exercise score was significantly related to several criteria of interest and had incremental validity beyond cognitive ability. The exercise was also significantly related to candidates’ people management competencies.