The Oral Interview as a Predictor of Academic Performance in a Preservice Law Enforcement Training Program

Abstract

The oral interview is a standard technique used in the selection of police officers and the prediction of their subsequent academy and on the job performance. This study attempted to construct a model that could accurately predict academic performance from oral interview performance in a preservice law enforcement training program. Previous research in the use of the oral interview as a predictor of academic performance has produced conflicting results. The sample in this study consisted of 159 candidates accepted by an oral interview board for training in a preservice police academy. Average academic performance was correlated to scores on an oral interview rating instrument consisting of nineteen subcategories using a Pearson Rank Correlation and Multiple Regression Analysis. The Pearson Rank Correlation demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between academic performance and oral interview performance. Multiple Regression Analysis was used in an attempt to construct a predictability model. Results of the study reflected that: 1. No predictability model can be constructed which shows a significant positive relationship between average academic performance and average oral interview performance. 2. No predictability model can be constructed which shows a significant positive relationship between average academic performance and one of the nineteen subcategories of the Oral Interview Rating Instrument . 3. No predictability model can be constructed which shows a significant positive relationship between nineteen subcategories of the Oral Interview Rating Instrument.

4. There exists a significant positive relationship between academic success, as measured by an average of 70% or higher, and acceptance by the interview board. No model could be constructed which accurately predicted academic performance from oral interview scores. However, if the candidate was accepted into the training program by the oral interview board, academic success, as measured by an overall academic average of 70% or higher at the completion of the program, could be predicted. It is recommended that the oral interview be retained in the police selection process as an acceptable means of screening out inappropriate candidates.