Unitarian validation of a mathematical problem-solving exercise for sales occupations

A content-related test construction strategy was employed as a means of yielding a test with criterion-related evidence of validity. Utilizing a national sample of field sales job incumbents, a group-based job analysis method was developed to identify job requirements. A content validity and concurrent criterion-related study were then conducted. The results demonstrated both content and criterion-related evidence of validity. Differential validity by race or gender was not found. A comparison between minority and non-minority group regression lines found no statistically significant difference between slopes. However, a statistically significant difference between minority and non-minority intercept values was found. The results are discussed in respect to their consistency with other research findings. The significance of the study is addressed in light of the recent Unitarian approach towards the theoretical and practical nature of test validity. It is suggested that practitioners and researchers investigate further the elements of this research effort as guidance for satisfying professional and federal standards.