The Value of Investing in Supervised Online Psychometric Assessments
At The David Legacy, we strongly believe in remote supervised administration of psychometric assessments. As psychology professions, registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), we need to ensure best practices, fairness, validity and ethical usage of assessments. This is to ensure that both interest parties involved, such as the candidate(s) and the client’s (organisation) best interests are taken into account.
The following considerations support our stance on remote supervision as found in research:
Flexibility and Accessibility:
Participants can take assessments from anywhere, making it easier to include remote or geographically diverse candidates. This flexibility allows for scheduling assessments that accommodate both the candidates and the psychology professionals.
Control & standardisation with immediate support:
Distractions, noise, anxiety, behaviour, etc. of the candidate can be observed, noted and managed by the psychology professional. Assessments can be completed online in one session within a set timeframe, with candidates briefed beforehand. Support and guidance are available throughout, allowing candidates to seek clarification on instructions or tasks.
Candidate comfort:
It’s convenient for candidates to complete assessments in a familiar and comfortable setting, such as their own home. The presence of a psychology professional adds a level of formality to the session.
Enhanced Communication:
Supervised online platforms facilitate better interactions between assessors and candidates.
Costs effectiveness:
Transport costs for candidates are reduced. Candidates only need reliable and stable internet connection.
Ethical concerns:
Candidates’ identity can be verified via webcam and online consent can be obtained beforehand. Assessment content can still be protected.
However, we are also aware of challenges such as those that are less likely to have access to a computer, reliable internet, a quiet environment and/or loadshedding challenges. Depending on a case-to-case basis, prior arrangements can be made for the candidate(s) to rather complete the assessments in-person at the office.
At end of the day, we as professionals are governed by legislation, psychological codes of conduct, and best ethical practice processes to ensure assessments are utilised in an ethical manner. Therefore, when psychometric assessments are used appropriately, it can be valuable directives for informed decision-making, enhancing organisational effectiveness, supporting aligned training programmes, and compilation of Individual Development Plans.
For us it is an honor to offer our expertise as part of our client’s drive in finding and developing future talent with the use of psychometric assessments.