Psychometric Testing of People with Disabilities

This Consultancy believes that sometimes special arrangements (or 'adjustments' to use the language of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1995) are necessary to enable disabled candidates to demonstrate their talents and personal qualities appropriately and fairly. For example, it may be necessary to make adjustments for candidates with such permanent or long-term disabilities or personal circumstances as:

• Physical disability
  
• Visual impairment
  
• Hearing impairment
  
• Specific learning difficulty/dyslexia
  
• Candidates with a temporary disability or indisposition at the time of the testing

The principles on which to base a decision about the need for adjustments during psychometric testing would be as follows:

1. That the specific nature of the special adjustment should be determined by the needs of the individual candidate.
   
2. That account should be taken of the candidate's usual method of taking tests, examinations or other forms of assessment.
   
3. The adjustments must not give the candidate an unfair advantage over other candidates.
   
4. Arrangements should not reduce the validity and reliability of the tests and questionnaires being used.

The range of adjustments that it is appropriate to make for candidates with disabilities follow:

Time Allowance

• Additional time can be allowed for all questionnaires and some tests. However, additional time would be inappropriate where performance on the test in a limited time is a specific assessment objective directly linked to job requirements.
  
• An additional allowance of up to 25% would meet most people's needs. It should be borne in mind that sometimes too much time can be counter-productive.
  
• Breaks or rest periods are acceptable, both inside and outside the room where testing is undertaken. The duration of the break should not be deducted from the time allowed for the test component.

Means of Access to Questions

• We are always happy to explore modifications to the visual presentation of materials for visually impaired people.
  
• The reading of questions to candidates is possible if access to the test is not possible through other means.
  
• Arranging for the signing of questions for hearing impaired candidates where this is necessary, and especially if this is the usual method of communication for that person and they cannot be tested by any other means.
  
• Use of bilingual translation dictionaries for candidates whose first language is not English.

Means of Presenting Responses

• Dictation of responses where this is necessary.
  
• Alternative accommodation arrangements.
  
• A preparedness to be flexible about where the person is assessed and to make whatever other adjustments are necessary.