Differential Assignment Theory Sourcebook.

Abstract

Differential Assignment Theory (DAT) is presented as an alternative to other current theories that pertain to personnel selection and classification, but, unlike DAT, do not provide a basis of optimism for the successful development and implementation of both selection and classification-efficient operational systems. Data focuses on the research and development of systems that can effectively accomplish: (1) selection from a common pool of applicants, and (2) the subsequent optimal assignment of selected individuals to one of a number of alternative job families. The other theories at least implicitly assume that separate applicant pools exist for each assignment destination, thus permitting the evaluation of test batteries and assignment effect of the intercorrelations among selection and assignment variables. DAT is described in terms of its assumptions, concepts, and the more than 30 principles that have been hypothesized and partially tested within the context of research on DAT relevant to selection and/or classification of personnel. The authors believe that true or more accurate descriptions of the interrelations among selected variables particularly relevant to selection and classification of personnel, including system, predictor, and criterion variables, are reflected in these principles. This report provides a source of such facts and concepts useful to the design of both research efforts and operational systems that have potential for the improvement of selection and/or classification policies, strategies, procedures, and total systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1995
Accession Number
ADA298629

Entities

People

  • Cecil D. Johnson
  • Joseph Zeldner

Organizations

  • George Washington University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Administrative Personnel
  • Air Force
  • Algorithms
  • Army Personnel
  • Classification
  • Composite Materials
  • Computer Programs
  • Databases
  • Management Personnel
  • New York
  • Personnel Selection
  • Psychology
  • Reliability
  • Sampling
  • Social Sciences
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Training

Fields of Study

  • Psychology

Readers

  • Instructional Design and Training Evaluation.
  • Naval Personnel Management
  • Systems Analysis and Design