CVE Work Samples & Situational Assessment 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A work sample is best defined as:
- A realistic task or set of tasks representative of actual job duties used to assess worker characteristics (Correct answer)
- A standardized paper-and-pencil aptitude test
- An employer-administered on-the-job evaluation
- A self-report of prior work history
Correct answer: A realistic task or set of tasks representative of actual job duties used to assess worker characteristics
Work samples replicate actual job tasks in a controlled evaluation setting to assess relevant aptitudes, work behaviors, and skills.
Question 2: Situational assessment differs from work samples in that it:
- Evaluates work behaviors in a real or simulated work environment over an extended period (Correct answer)
- Uses only paper-and-pencil instruments
- Focuses exclusively on physical capacity
- Is always conducted by the employer rather than the evaluator
Correct answer: Evaluates work behaviors in a real or simulated work environment over an extended period
Situational assessment observes the client's work behaviors, social skills, and productivity in an actual or simulated work setting over time.
Question 3: The TOWER (Testing, Orientation, and Work Evaluation in Rehabilitation) system is an example of a:
- Comprehensive work sample system developed for rehabilitation populations (Correct answer)
- Computerized interest inventory
- Physical demands analysis tool
- Vocational counseling curriculum
Correct answer: Comprehensive work sample system developed for rehabilitation populations
The TOWER system was one of the earliest comprehensive work sample batteries specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.
Question 4: When conducting a situational assessment, which behavior should the evaluator document MOST carefully as it relates to employability?
- Attendance, punctuality, response to supervision, and social interactions with coworkers (Correct answer)
- Speed on isolated dexterity tasks only
- Academic test scores
- Medical diagnosis and treatment history
Correct answer: Attendance, punctuality, response to supervision, and social interactions with coworkers
Employability-related work behaviors such as attendance, punctuality, and interpersonal skills are critical observations in situational assessments.
Question 5: A disadvantage of commercial work sample systems in vocational evaluation is:
- They can be expensive and may not reflect local labor market job demands (Correct answer)
- They are never standardized
- They cannot be used with individuals who have disabilities
- They do not measure dexterity or coordination
Correct answer: They can be expensive and may not reflect local labor market job demands
Commercial work sample systems involve significant cost and may not align well with jobs actually available in the client's local labor market.
Question 6: In work sample administration, the evaluator's primary role during client performance is to:
- Observe and record performance objectively without coaching or assisting (Correct answer)
- Coach the client through each task step
- Complete paperwork while the client works independently
- Only time the task without observing behavior
Correct answer: Observe and record performance objectively without coaching or assisting
Objective observation without interference ensures the evaluator captures a true picture of the client's independent work performance.
CVE Work Samples & Situational Assessment 1
A work sample is best defined as: