In selection procedures, work samples measuring verbal skills have what relation to motor skills in validity?

In selection procedures, work samples measuring verbal skills have what relation to motor skills in validity?

• A. Verbal skills have less validity
• B. Motor skills have higher validity
• C. Verbal skills have higher validity
• D. They have equal validity

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that verbal abilities in work-sample assessments tend to be stronger predictors of job performance than motor abilities. Validity here means how well a test forecast described performance on the job. Verbal skills tap broad cognitive processing, understanding, reasoning, and communication— capabilities that influence a wide range of work tasks across many occupations. Because they reflect general mental ability that underlies successful performance, verbal work samples typically show higher criterion-related validity. Motor skills, while essential for tasks requiring precise physical actions, are more task-specific and limited in generalizability, so their predictive power is usually lower. Of course, in roles with heavy physical demands, motor skills become more relevant, but overall verbal skills have higher validity for predicting job performance.

The key idea is that verbal abilities in work-sample assessments tend to be stronger predictors of job performance than motor abilities. Validity here means how well a test forecast described performance on the job. Verbal skills tap broad cognitive processing, understanding, reasoning, and communication— capabilities that influence a wide range of work tasks across many occupations. Because they reflect general mental ability that underlies successful performance, verbal work samples typically show higher criterion-related validity. Motor skills, while essential for tasks requiring precise physical actions, are more task-specific and limited in generalizability, so their predictive power is usually lower. Of course, in roles with heavy physical demands, motor skills become more relevant, but overall verbal skills have higher validity for predicting job performance.