,The concept of unfair labour practice has been introduced into
South Africa through the Labour Relations Act and it is argued
that certain psychometric testing practices can be interpreted as
falling under the definition of an unfair labour practice.
Empirical results are presented indicating that different ethnic
groups obtain significantly different mean ability test scores. A
case study is cited to show that this would result in an
underprediction of performance on a criterion for the lower
scoring of two groups if test scores are regarded as comparable.
It is argued that any interpretation of psychometric data in South
Africa that does not take into account of possible differences
between ethnic groups is likely to ignore a significant moderator
variable, given the history of ethnically based discriminatory
practices in this country. Arguments based on meta-analytical
research in the USA, to the effect that psychometric ability tests
do not discriminate unfairly against disadvantaged groups if the
same tests and norms are used, should not be assumed to hold in
South Africa. Various conceptions of what constitutes fairness
in selection are considered, and it is concluded that there is a
need for employers to make explicit in their selection policies
the trade-off between economic and social costs of employment
practices. Finally, some implications for users of psychometric
tests in industry are considered, to forewarn of likely
developments in this field. 1. Do you agree with the statement
that “certain psychometric testing practices can be interpreted as
, falling under the definition of an unfair labour practice”, and
why? (3) 2. What is the meaning of the statement “different
ethnic groups obtain significantly different mean ability test
scores”? (3) 3. What possible differences should be taken into
account during an interpretation of psychometric data in South
Africa? (4) 4. The Employment Equity Act (EEA) gives clear
guidelines on the use of psychological assessment tools. In your
discussion, also make an argument for or against the adequacy
of the Act to address concerns of psychological assessments.
(10) 5. Describe what norms are and why they are used in
psychological assessment. Why is it necessary to use norm
scores and not raw scores in the interpretation of psychological
test results? (5)
1. Interpretation of Psychometric Testing as Unfair Labour
Practice
Agreement with the Statement:
Yes, I agree that certain psychometric testing practices can be
interpreted as falling under the definition of an unfair labour
practice, particularly in the context of South Africa. Here’s why:
• Historical Context: South Africa has a history of
ethnically based discriminatory practices, and this history
necessitates careful consideration of how psychometric
tests might inadvertently perpetuate these biases.
• Ethnic Differences in Scores: If psychometric tests show
significant mean differences between ethnic groups, using
these tests without adjustments can lead to unfair outcomes.
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