In the fourth Project, requirements and objectives are being ex-
amined to determine if it is possible to codify and standardize the in-
formation extraction procedure, particularly as it relates to flash or
immediate reporting. If this can be done, the time necessary to make
interpretations can probably be cut down. Reporting of unnecessary de-
tail can be reduced, thus clarifying the nature of the information that
is transmitted. Here too, it is important to take a very careful look
at forms and procedures used to insure that they are congruent with re-
quirements and objectives.
In the fifth project, interest is in developing functions which re-
late speed to accuracy and completeness, and similarly, accuracy to speed
and completeness, and the like. Results should lend support or give di-
rection to personnel in instructing and supervising photointerpreters at
work. This study will also suggest ideas as to workload parameters, for
example: What effect does emphasis on speed of output have on volume
and accuracy of the product?
DEVELOPMENT OF SELECTION TECHNIQUES FOR IMAGE INTERPRETER PERSONNEL
The second broad area deals with selection technique studies. Here
the approach is a very straightforward one, designed to produce immediate
results in a very important area. The objective in the first study of
this area is to identify personnel with adequate photointerpreter poten-
tial prior to training and assignment. To this end an experimental
battery of tests is being constructed based upon job requirements as
they exist today and as they are likely to exist in the near future.
The experimental battery will include three types of test: (1) the
traditional cognitive or aptitude type, such as tests of spatial, per-
ceptual, mechanical, verbal, and reasoning areas; (2) tests of interest
and motivation; and (3) tests relating to personality and background
characteristics. These experimental tests will be tried out in the school
situation and on the job to identify those which do the best job of pre-
dicting school and job proficiency. The best of these tests will then
be selected and made operational. The contribution to the system is the
identification of a more efficient selection technique, one which should
result in & higher quality of information.
Ihe interpreter schools need a Screen to prevent persons who lack
the interest, motivation, and requisite ability from entering training.
Since there is a need for the highest quality of personnel input into this
area, an interim selection battery based upon pilot studies and addi-
tional existing information will be made operational in the near future.
The interim battery will be replaced by a battery consisting of the best
of the experimental tests as soon as information on the relative effec-
tiveness of the experimental tests is available.
Archives 6
