In this approach, the candidate is trained to perform a sample of the job tasks and his or her ability to perform these tasks is then measured. The approach assumes that a person who can demonstrate the ability to learn and perform the sample of task will be able to learn and perform the job itself.
The technique has been successful. One study surveyed a group of navy recruit who had been deemed unacceptable for various naval schools based on their performance on traditional test batteries.The recruits participated in several miniature job training and evaluation situations. One was the "computation and projection miniature training and evaluation situation."Here recruits were taught how to read a simplified plot diagram of the positions of two shops, their headings, and speed, and how to extrapolate the new position of each ship and evaluate the danger of collision. Seamen who normally would have been barred from this type of training were found to the competent to pursue computation and projection schooling.
The approach has advantages and disadvantages. It is "content relevant."testing the applicant with an actual sample of the job rather than just with paper-and-pencil tests. This direct approach may be more acceptable (and fair) to disadvantaged applicants than the usual paper-and-pencil test. On the other hand, whit its emphasis on individual instruction during training, this approach is also a relative expensive screening device.