Previous meta-analytic findings have revealed that explanations can improve applicants’ perceptions of selection procedures. However, they also suggest that these positive effects do not generalize to ability tests. Given some limitations of previous studies and the small empirical basis for the corresponding meta-analytic results, we had another look at whether perceptions of ability tests can be improved by providing an explanation. In two experimental studies, participants had to complete either an attention or a general mental ability test. In the explanation group, a justification was given concerning the content, relevance, and predictiveness of the test. In contrast, no explanation was given in the control group. Providing an explanation significantly improved test takers’ fairness perceptions.

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通过提供解释可以提高应试者对能力测试的认识吗？

先前的荟萃分析发现表明，解释可以改善申请人对选择程序的理解。但是，他们也建议这些积极的影响不能推广到能力测试。考虑到先前研究的某些局限性以及相应的荟萃分析结果的小经验基础，我们又来看看是否可以通过提供解释来改善对能力测试的认识。在两项实验研究中，参与者必须完成注意力或一般心理能力测验。在解释组中，给出了关于测试的内容，相关性和可预测性的理由。相反，对照组没有给出解释。提供解释可以大大改善应试者的公平感。