Citation

Keye D, Conzelmann K, Grasshoff D, Eißfeldt H, Heintz A, Maschke P. Pers. Individ. Dif. 2014; 60(Suppl): S46.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.paid.2013.07.138

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The job of an air traffic controller (ATCO) is highly specific. The German Aerospace Center (DLR) conducts a multi-stage selection procedure for ATCO applicants of the German Air Navigation Service Provider (DFS). A validation study based on 476 ab initio ATCO trainees was conducted. Predictors included cognitive ability tests, low-fidelity ATC simulations, team exercises, English language tests, and interview ratings. These were related to criteria such as performance in theoretical and practical examinations, performance ratings of instructors, exam repetition, and training success. The training success rate of 81% was satisfactory and best predicted by cognitive ability tests and the interview. Examination performance was best predicted by cognitive ability complimented by simulation tests, and the interview. Early stages of training were better predicted compared to later ones. The prediction of exam repetitions included cognitive ability tests and ATC simulations. Ratings of instructors were predicted by tests from almost all selection tests.