Selection tests for visual inspection on a multiple fault type task

Although individual differences between inspectors is the most significant factor in differences in inspection performance there are no suitable selection tests. The task was analysed to indicate the required mental characteristics and from this a battery often selection tests was devised. These are used with a simulated task developed on a computer plotter to include the search and decision components of inspection. Presentation was by sets of slides which contained 2, 4 or 6 fault types and slides were classified as fault-free, acceptable fault, or reject. Subjects were 48 students and 18 industrial inspectors. Results were analysed by multivariate analysis of covariance and showed no difference between the student and industrial subjects. The best predictor was a simplified version of the task. Very good predictive ability was obtained with the Embedded Figures Test, and other good predictors were lobe size and mental imagery. If these tests were not used good predictive ability was obtained with a subset of the WAIS test. Eysenck's test of extroversion, and Gordon's test of Mental Imagery Control.