Efficacy and benefits of virtual mock interviews: Analysing student perceptions of digital employment preparations

Abstract

Mock interviews are an evidence-based method of preparing learners for real employment situations. The effect of novel approaches, such as digital, asynchronous and AI-mediated mock interviews have likewise shown beneficial to students but are currently underrepresented in the literature. This study examined students’ satisfaction levels and perceptions related to virtual mock interviews during the Covid-19 pandemic. Findings show that students had a positive experience, insofar as they believed it to be useful in increasing their ability to perform better in a real interview. While differences were noted among multiple variables, the primary factor associated with positive student outcomes seems to be their level of preparedness prior to the simulation.