Mechanisch-technisches Verständnis als Konstrukt in der testbasierten Studienberatung
In order to support students in choosing their major field of study, the number of internet-based self-assessment tools has increased in the last years. Based on developmental and differential orientated psychological concepts of career choice and decision making, self-assessment tools are presented as a guidance service to inform about basic requirements of a special field of study and to give feedback about individual study-related strengths and weaknesses. Mechanical aptitude is introduced as a requirement or possible task in a self-assessment for mechanical engineering. It is understood as a concept of spatial abilities and is implemented by a scale dealing with motion verification task. In five empirical studies the scale’s impact on student’s test-based access to study requirements is examined. Using the data of 2806 prospective students for scale evaluation, the scale turns out to be adequate for the target group. Concerning construct validity correlation studies (n=401) showed expected relations between the developed scale and other tests dealing with spatial and reasoning abilities as well as vocational interests. In regard to social acceptance and face validity, the mechanical aptitude items were rated by respondents to be more representative and study-related as a similar scale dealing with visualization tasks (n=289). In an additional study focusing on external choice and study related criteria, correlations appear within the expected range (n=137 to n=2806). Differences in achievement between women and men that are common in the area of mechanical aptitude are examined. Their relevance for study guidance is discussed with respect to assessed external criteria.
info:eu-repo/classification/ddc/150, Studienberatung, Selbsttest, Testkonstruktion, Technisches Verständnis, Raumvorstellung, Psychologie, self-assessment, motion verification task
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