Abstract
Assessment centres (ACs) are used as tools for selection and development in South Africa (SA) and many parts of the world. This research examined possible ethical challenges in ACs, from the perspectives of AC participants because it was deemed important to also hear the voice of the participants. The study was aimed at gathering rich and authentic data from the participants regarding their experiences in ACs. Data were gathered from AC participants in similar selection ACs (n=157), using semi-structured, qualitative surveys. Conventional content analysis was used to identify possible ethical challenges in ACs, from the perspective of the AC participants. Many ethical challenges were identified, and it is suggested that a progressive line of thinking is followed in the design and implementation of an AC, to enhance ethics. It is recommended that a broad theoretical framework for ethics be embraced, an evidence-based scientific framework be incorporated, the applicable regulatory framework in the specific country be complied with, the available best practice guidelines be followed, and finally, the requirements of available codes of ethics (such as the AC Code of Ethics, ACSG, 2018a) be aspired to.
M.Phil. (Industrial Psychology)