Virtual assessment centres versus face-to-face assessment centres: psychometric properties

Abstract

Technological advancements in the past decade have transformed personnel selection processes. This study compares the psychometric properties of virtual assessment centres (VACs) and face-to-face assessment centres (FTF-ACs). The study reports the findings of a field study involving 10,898 candidates participating in a selection process for military positions through either an FTF-AC or a VAC. The study finds that the two ACs appeared to capture the measured capabilities in a different manner. However, the measured capabilities in two ACs are related similarly to other variables, and there is good reliability between assessors in VACs. For most dimensions, the reliability in the VAC was similar to that in the FTF-AC. However, performance ratings in the VAC were significantly higher than those in the FTF-AC. This is the first study that compares the psychometric properties of a VAC and an FTF-AC. The results provide initial support for organizations’ use of VACs in personnel selection. Nonetheless, further research is needed to validate the effectiveness of VACs and to understand their limitations. The article also includes recommendations for future research.