Question

Explain briefly about "Cognitive ability tests" with a Specific scenario as an example. A) What cognitive ability tests are and B) Why they are controversial. C) Why cognitive ability tests are effective. D) Why HR is often reluctant to use cognitive ability tests even though they are the most effective selection devices. (A minimum of 300 words is required for this essay).

Answer 1

Cognitive ability tests are a selection method to test the capabilities and knowledge of a person. These tests were used by psychologists in the early 1900s to measure the aptitude level of candidates through standardized tests. Cognitive ability tests comprise of testing verbal reasoning, memory, aptitude, mathematical and reasoning abilities.
Cognitive ability tests are controversial in certain situations as these tests form the sole basis of selecting a candidate for a job. This forms a source of discrimination for certain ethnic groups, minorities and females scoring low in these tests, especially in mathematics. Research has proven that there are differences in abilities between male and female applicants, especially in mathematics with female applicants at a disadvantage. This discrimination aspect of Cognitive ability tests makes HR reluctant to use these tests in the recruitment process.
Cognitive ability tests are effective as they predict job performance to a great extent. These tests are one of the effective ways of evaluating and understanding the employees. Companies use cognitive ability tests for performance appraisal and employee recruitment primarily. Cognitive ability tests are very effective in short listing the applicants for a certain job. It serves as the initial filtering mechanism to shortlist the candidates for the next round of the recruitment process. Computer-based Cognitive ability tests save time and money for the organization as the scores arrive instantly in a reliable manner and the results are published in a fast manner without any delays. Cognitive ability tests are used to predict the future performance of a prospect employee through measuring abilities such as abstract thinking, comprehending concepts, planning, problem-solving, organizing, learning from experience quickly, new knowledge application and adapting to uncertain situations. Online Cognitive ability tests cost less for the companies compared to other tests like personality tests, MBTI and hence proven effective.