EVALUATION OF TESTS FOR IMPROVEMENT OF PROGRAMMER TRAINEE SELECTION,
Abstract
A variety of aptitude tests was administered to SDC programmer trainees at the start of the training course in 1965 and 1966. Grades in four courses were factor analyzed, and scores on two factors representing 80 percent of the variance in grades were used as criteria. One factor was labeled programming ability and the other system knowledge. Programming ability was consistently related to all of the cognitive ability measures. A combination of three Primary Mental Abilities and Computer Programmer Aptitude Battery tests, selected by multiple regression analysis, gave a cross-validity coefficient of .66 and was recommended for use. System knowledge was less consistently and less highly related to the predictor variables. A combination of two tests provided a cross-validity coefficient of .50, but no prediction equation was recommended. Measures of quantitative reasoning ability were the best predictors of both factors. Measures of verbal, perceptual, and numerical ability were of less value, and grade-point average and programming interest were inconsistent. Further research is recommended to determine the relations of the predictor and training variables to job performance. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 13, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0661609
Entities
People
- Dallis K. Perry
Organizations
- System Development Corporation