NCJ Number
194199
Date Published
2002
Length
215 pages
Annotation
This book provides essential knowledge to all potential police assessment center candidates for improved performance.
Abstract
Assessment centers are the best method of determining who is better suited for a position or advancement. It is the ultimate process for measuring performance ability in a realistic setting. Assessment centers are defined as a variety of testing techniques designed to allow candidates to demonstrate, under standardized conditions, the skills and abilities that are most essential for success in a given job. Chapter 1 provides a history of assessment centers in the United States, the value of assessment center testing, the evolution of assessment center testing, and performance rationale. Chapter 2 describes the legal actions of police promotion testing with case law summaries. In Chapter 3, written examinations in a promotional process are discussed, along with written test development, the design and utilization of written tests, successful test-taking strategies, and practical suggestions for studying for a written test. Chapter 4 describes the proper attitude and approach for assessment center participation. Chapter 5 provides information on traditional skill areas assessed, the dimensions, and importance of displaying each dimension. Chapter 6 discusses developing a performance strategy, with key areas of focus and keys to strategy preparation. Chapter 7 provides the principles of handling an in-basket, including the structural makeup, dominant skills areas, and how to display the dominant dimensions. Chapter 8 discusses effective performance in group exercises. In Chapter 9, the effectiveness in an oral presentation exercise is discussed. Chapter 10 deals with effective handling of a counseling simulation exercise, including basic structure, skills areas, and recommended sequential process. Chapter 11 explores effectively documenting a problem analysis exercise, such as what a written analysis exercise measures and effective decision making process. References, index