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What is the difference between WWI army Alpha and Beta tests?

a) Alpha tested verbal abilities, Beta tested non-verbal abilities
b) Alpha and Beta tests were the same
c) Alpha tested physical fitness, Beta tested mental fitness
d) There was no difference

User Phius
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The WWI Army Alpha test assessed verbal abilities of literate English-speaking recruits, while the Army Beta test evaluated non-verbal abilities for those who were illiterate or not fluent in English. The correct answer to which test was used for recruits not fluent in English is Army Beta.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between WWI Army Alpha and Beta tests is that the Alpha test measured verbal abilities, while the Beta test was designed to measure non-verbal abilities. Specifically, the Army Alpha test was used to assess the mental abilities of literate English-speaking recruits, while the Army Beta test was administered to those who were illiterate or did not speak English fluently. This non-verbal test was crucial in ensuring that all recruits had their intellectual capabilities assessed even if they could not understand English or read and write effectively. The Beta test made use of pictorial and other non-verbal types of questions to evaluate these individuals.

In response to the specific question regarding which test was used for recruits who were not fluent in English, the answer is c. Army Beta.

These tests were part of the psychological assessment tools developed during World War I, reflecting a broader understanding of intelligence that includes both verbal and non-verbal skills, as later supported by David Wechsler's work on intelligence testing. The Army Alpha and Beta tests represented an early effort to address diverse needs within the military personnel selection process.

User Douyw
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