Abstract

The issue of construct validity has become a contentious issue in the study of assessment centres around the world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the construct validity of assessment centre dimension ratings through correlation and factor analysis. The sample consisted of 138 individuals who participated in a two-day assessment centre for selection as partners/directors in an auditing firm. Twenty-one dimensions were measured using six different exercises. Both correlation and factor analysis results showed no evidence of discriminant validity amongst dimensions measured in the simulation and interview exercises. Convergent validity among some dimensions was found only in one of the simulation exercises. Implications for assessment centre design and research have been discussed.

Key words: Construct validity, assessment centre, convergent validity, discriminant validity, multi-trait multi-method approach, competency based assessment.