As noted in a prior DCI Update, it was reported in the Chicago newspapers that the Chicago Police Department is considering scrapping its police entry exam (see http://www.policeone.com/patrol-issues/articles/1986463-Chicago-police-may-scrap-entrance-exam/). On February 1, 2010, Diane Cadrain reported results she obtained by interviewing several individuals for their reactions to the newspaper reports. Among others, yours truly (Art Gutman) and DCI Principal Consultant Mike Aamodt were interviewed. Several good reasons for not scrapping the tests were discussed, including alternative selection procedures that produce less or no adverse impact, alternative liabilities for municipalities that would make such a decision, and strategies for developing tests that best limit potential liabilities in general. The article is available here for SHRM subscribers. I will gladly forward a copy of Cadrain’s report to any interested non-subscriber (artgut@aol.com).
by Art Gutman Ph.D., Professor, Florida Institute of Psychology