Implications of modern intelligence research for assessing intelligence in the workplace

Abstract

Intelligence research has flourished recently with contributions from multiple sub-disciplines of psychology. However, the fields of Human Resources and I/O Psychology have lagged behind these other sub-disciplines in advancing what is known about intelligence and benefiting from modern improvements to both intelligence theory and test design. This is unfortunate as the increasing pace, complexity, and globalization of work demand a more precise and uncontaminated measurement of intelligence that remains effective across multiple contexts. The current paper attempts to fill this knowledge gap by providing an overview of some of the major intelligence theories and test design principles that have the potential to inform the use of intelligence in HR contexts. Advances in both theory and measurement from psychometric, neurocognitive, cross-cultural, and cognitive literatures are reviewed. Test and item design approaches such as reducing cultural content and content not relevant to the measured domain and increasing the use of non-entrenched items are highlighted.