AssessmentDay Comment on the Numerical Reasoning Calculator Debate

Chelmsford, United Kingdom (11 March, 2011) - AssessmentDay, leading experts in online aptitude tests and psychometric tests, comment on the implications of allowing the use of calculators in numerical reasoning tests.

There has been recent debate over whether the use of calculators in numerical testing should be permitted. In certain jobs, numerical reasoning will play a key role, and employers will be looking for someone who has a high level of mathematical ability as opposed to someone who relies heavily on a calculator.

Many jobs may feature numerical tests in their application phase, yet there is often a difference in the way some of them are conducted. For example, some numerical testing will allow applicants to use a calculator, while others will require them to display their mental arithmetic skills instead. However, some believe that this is irrelevant, as there will be no restriction on whether they use a calculator or not once the candidate actually secures the role.

"This is a complicated issue, as people who have a high degree of numerical reasoning may struggle during a test if nerves affect their skills, while many are so practiced in using a calculator that they may have forgotten the basics of mental arithmetic," commented a spokesperson for AssessmentDay. "It may be an idea to allow a calculator for half of a test, and then ask the applicants to use mental calculations for the rest. This will then make it easier to assess who has high mental estimation skills by evaluating which portion shows the better results. By using our practice numerical reasoning tests, people can become comfortable with the format and structure of this kind of testing, and therefore increase their chances of securing the position."

For more information about AssessmentDay Ltd and online psychometric tests and aptitude tests, visit their website at http://www.assessmentday.co.uk/ or call 02071 835441.

About us:
AssessmentDay was set up as a help point for graduates and job seekers looking for information about aptitude tests and assessment centres. The service offers tips and preparation guides for online aptitude tests and psychometric tests at assessment centres, with the intention of providing job seekers with practice tests which accurately reflect those used by many recruiters. AssessmentDay employs the services of chartered occupational psychologists, some of whom have written professionally for such major psychometric test publishers as SHL, ASE, and Kenexa.

Contact:
Oliver Savill
AssessmentDay Ltd,
16 Foxholes Road,
Great Baddow,
Chelmsford,
CM2 7HP
Tel: 02071 835441
Email: os@assessmentday.co.uk

This release was published on openPR.