Predicting learner performance in the clothing industry

Abstract

The aim of the research is to determine the predictive relationship between mental alertness, personality traits, psychomotor ability and learner performance, in the selection of clothing industry learners. A concurrent validity study is described in which 213 learners were given an assessment battery and assessed on their learning performance and work performance. The psychometric assessment battery measured the domains of mental alertness, personality traits and psychomotor ability in a four-hour session. A combination of paper-and-pencil and practical sewing work assessments were used to assess learner performance. The domain learner performance comprised the assessment scores for the learnership’s theoretical and practical modules. The work performance domain was measured by supervisor appraised work-quality and work-quantity. The assessment domains were then examined for their potential to predict work performance. Linear multiple regression equations reported R2 = 0,3266 for work performance.