Vocational Testing in Relation to Professor Spearman's Theories

The use of psychological tests for various educational and vocational purposes has been growing rapidly during the last ten years and many persons are convinced of their value. Yet the nature of the mental functions which are measured by these tests is still disputed to an extent which threatens to delay their full and proper application. Quite recently 1 Professor Spearman has suggested that the procedure of many compilers and users of psychological tests is not founded upon any sound or consistent theory as to the nature of ability and that, in consequence, their conclusions are not sufficiently reliable. Such criticism from the author of some of the most original and constructive contributions to modern theories of intelligence must be taken seriously. But, although no one who has thoroughly examined the processes of test construction and standardisation will deny that a special knowledge and technique is required for such work, wholesale scepticism of its value is difficult to justify. When they have been carefully constructed and used, psychological tests have proved of great service in the organisation of school activities, in the important work of vocational guidance, and in other ways. It will be interesting, therefore, to examine current practice in mental testing in the light of Professor Spearman's present theories as to the nature of ability.