Interview Skills Project
Interview Skills Project
Interview Skills Project
1
Project Roles
2
Learning/Instruction
• Main contributor for Contextual Analysis
• Main contributor to Task Analysis
• Supportive contributor to Needs Analysis
• Supportive contributor for Types of Learning
Experiences/Instruction
• Backup Team Leader
3
Table of Contents
Project Roles .......................................................................................................................................... 2
I-A: Broad Goals and Big Ideas .................................................................................................. 6
I-B: Student Learning Objectives ............................................................................................. 8
Goal 1 (Preparation) .......................................................................................................................... 8
Goal 2 (Introduction) ......................................................................................................................... 9
Goal 3 (Interview) ............................................................................................................................10
Goal 4 (Conclusion) ..........................................................................................................................11
Extant Data..........................................................................................................................................12
Data from Direct Sources ..............................................................................................................15
I-D: Task Analysis ............................................................................................................................20
Goal 1: Objective 1.1 Topic Analysis.........................................................................................20
Goal 1: Objective 1.2 Procedural Analysis ..............................................................................21
Goal 3: Objectives 3.1 and 3.2 Topic Analysis ......................................................................23
Goal 3: Objectives 3.1 and 3.2 Procedural Analysis ...........................................................25
II-A Formative Evaluation ...........................................................................................................28
Overview...............................................................................................................................................28
Identifying Stakeholders ................................................................................................................28
Variables and Questions of Interest ..........................................................................................28
Target Learners..................................................................................................................................28
Employers ............................................................................................................................................29
Usability Experts ................................................................................................................................29
Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) ...................................................................................................29
Formative Evaluation Protocol .....................................................................................................30
Data Collection and Analysis Protocol .......................................................................................30
II-B Summative Evaluation ........................................................................................................32
Overview...............................................................................................................................................32
Summative Evaluation Part I: Immediate Feedback ..........................................................32
Summative Evaluation Part 2: Follow up Self-Assessment ..............................................33
III-A Learner Analysis ...................................................................................................................35
Overview...............................................................................................................................................35
Learner Factors ..................................................................................................................................35
Assumptions ........................................................................................................................................39
4
III-B Contextual Analysis ............................................................................................................40
Overview...............................................................................................................................................40
Assumptions ........................................................................................................................................42
III-C Types of Learning/Experiences/Instruction .......................................................44
III-D Materials for Training Program or Learning System ......................................46
III-E Implementation Plan .........................................................................................................47
References ............................................................................................................................................48
Appendix A: Needs Assessment and Evaluation Materials ......................................50
A.1 Needs Assessment Materials ................................................................................................50
A.1.1 Survey of Target Training Audience ..........................................................................50
A.1.2 Interview Guide for Employers ....................................................................................54
A.2 Instruments for Formative Evaluation ..............................................................................57
A.2.1 Instrument: SME Survey ...............................................................................................58
A.2.2 Instrument: Pilot Survey ...............................................................................................59
A.3 Summative Evaluation Instruments ..................................................................................61
A.3.1. Instrument: Immediate Feedback Quizzes ...........................................................61
A.3.2. Instrument: Follow-Up Self-Assessment................................................................64
Appendix B: Materials, Schedules and Implementation ...........................................73
B.1 Table of Learning Experiences and Instructional Strategies ...................................73
B.2 Materials for Training Program ............................................................................................79
B.3 Implementation Schedule ......................................................................................................89
5
I-A: Broad Goals and Big Ideas
The target audience for the training includes recent graduates of
community colleges and/or technical schools who may be inexperienced job-
hunters that lack the skills necessary to convey professionalism during job
interviews. This perceived lack of a professional demeanor can hamper their
efforts to find work, even if they have sufficient education and training to
work in the field in which they seek employment. The profile of the target
audience can include but is not limited to the following types of learners:
disconnected young adults, prisoners preparing for reentry, military spouses,
stay-at-home parents and caregivers, millennials, retirees, veterans, the
disabled, and immigrants. They may also possess developmental skills in
reading, writing, and computer literacy.
Job seekers with strong interview skills are more than just excellent
communicators; they understand the value of practice and preparation.
However, practicing for interviews is not an easy task. For some, it requires
access to interpersonal scenarios and resources that may not be readily
available to the job seeker. Additionally, the ability to interview is a skill that
workers need only intermittently and on-demand, meaning that training
programs involving large amounts of time or located outside a job seeker’s
immediate area may not be utilized. This dearth of resources can result in
candidates under-preparing for opportunities that could have a great impact
on their future.
By offering virtual simulations online, the training needed to practice
and prepare for interviews is available on any device with a browser and a
network connection, day or night. Virtual simulations can prepare job
seekers for an array of interpersonal scenarios within a low-risk context,
introducing them to situations that they would normally face under high
pressure. With short, specific modules, job seekers can choose the
simulations that best fit their needs.
6
As mentioned earlier, the target audience may include learners with
developmental reading, writing, and computer skills. In order to minimize
the need for advanced reading/writing skills, the training will focus mainly on
role-play simulations that utilize audio, video, and animations. To facilitate
access for users with limited computer skills, the training modules will be
web-based and accessible without registration to a particular website, as
well as mobile-friendly.
Through the training, the target audience will have the ability to
refresh their current interview skills, learn new ones, compare their results
to those of other learners, and complete self-assessments at their own pace
from any location. Using these web-based practice simulations, the target
audience will gain the professionalism and confidence they need to
successfully step into an increasingly competitive labor market.
Goal #1- Job seekers will identify the hallmarks of interview preparation by
proficient completion of virtual scenarios.
Goal #2: Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful
attitude during the introduction stage of the interview by proficient
completion of virtual scenarios.
Goal #3: Job seekers will demonstrate preparation and positive body
language during the body of the interview by proficient completion of virtual
scenarios.
Goal #4: Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful
attitude at the conclusion of the interview by proficient completion of virtual
scenarios.
7
I-B: Student Learning Objectives
Goal 1 (Preparation)
8
o Align their own skill-set with the given qualifications in the
scenario’s job description
o Select an outfit to wear that is appropriate for an interview
o Outline follow-up questions to ask the interviewer in the scenario
Goal 2 (Introduction)
Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful attitude during
the introduction stage of the interview by proficient completion of virtual
scenarios. (S)(K)
9
o Mute cell phone
o Choose correct time to shake hands during the simulation
o Select the appropriate time to arrive at the interview location
o Exhibit appropriate body language to the interviewer (e.g.,
smile, make eye contact, smile, and show enthusiasm when
meeting the interviewer)
Goal 3 (Interview)
Job seekers will demonstrate preparation and positive body language during
the body of the interview by proficient completion of virtual scenarios.
(S)(K)
10
o Refrain from putting anything on the interviewer’s desk
o Exhibit appropriate body language postures
o Select appropriate questions to ask interviewers
o Offer interviewer a resume and list of references
Goal 4 (Conclusion)
Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful attitude at the
conclusion of the interview by proficient completion of virtual scenarios.
(S)(K)(A)
11
I-C: Needs Analysis
Extant Data
The first step in conducting the needs analysis is reviewing the data
related to the training topic that already exists. This can help instructional
designers optimize and streamline the needs analysis process. A thorough
extant data analysis can provide enough insight into the key training needs
to begin working on the next steps in the design process. While this type of
analysis should not be the only data gathered, other types of data collection
can be done concurrently with other steps in the design process to verify
what was determined in the extant data analysis. Completing an extant data
analysis can also reveal to instructional designers what gaps there are in
existing information, which can help inform what other types of direct data
need to be collected to fill those gaps.
Sample
Types of
Data sought Information Rationale
Information
Sources
12
Sample
Types of
Data sought Information Rationale
Information
Sources
https://career.misso
uri.edu/images/pdfs/
handouts/Guide-to-
Interviewing.pdf
https://career.misso
uri.edu/interviews/on
line-interviews
https://career.misso
uri.edu/interviews/ph
13
Sample
Types of
Data sought Information Rationale
Information
Sources
one-interviews
14
Sample
Types of
Data sought Information Rationale
Information
Sources
reviews from
employers
15
Types of Data sought Rationale Key Types of
Information Stakeholders Procedures
(Instruments)
analysis. Observations:
Collecting mock interviews
information from at career day
this audience functions at local
will also help to community
determine how colleges or
they approach career training
the interview centers to
process and determine
what actuals
feelings/attitude
s may be driving Tool used for
those particular data
approaches. collection:
Observation
By using a guide
survey, the most
amount of
people can be
reached at the
lowest cost,
respondents
have anonymity,
respondents
have time to
reflect and think
before
answering the
questions, and
the responses
are easier to
16
Types of Data sought Rationale Key Types of
Information Stakeholders Procedures
(Instruments)
score and
analyze.
Focus group
interviews would
also be
beneficial
because they
allow for a quick
collection of
information in a
short amount of
time.
Morrison, Ross,
Kalman, and
Kemp (2013)
state that
observations are
beneficial
because they
“provide
information that
goes beyond
words.” This can
be valuable
information
because “the
training
audience may
have an
17
Types of Data sought Rationale Key Types of
Information Stakeholders Procedures
(Instruments)
inaccurate
perspective of
their needs.”
Thus,
observations can
be used in
combination
with surveys to
determine
whether there
are gaps
between the
perceived
actuals of the
target training
audience
performance.
18
Types of Data sought Rationale Key Types of
Information Stakeholders Procedures
(Instruments)
19
I-D: Task Analysis
20
1.1.7.2. “Snap shot” the professional attire
1.1.7.3. Select attire similar to professionals on company website
1.1.7.4. Appraise choices based on family and friends feedback
1.1.8.Identify appropriate follow-up questions for interviewer
1.1.8.1. Examine company website for gaps in information
regarding:
o Company stability
o Employee satisfaction and retention
o Family leave policy
o Benefits package
1.1.8.2. Highlight and list key questions
1.1.8.2.1. Prioritize questions and limit to four or five
1.1.9.Verbally practice appropriate questions
21
2.1 Find the Preparation training path
2.1.1 Locate the square with the pen icon
2.1.2 Click the icon to begin
3.0 Determine preferred training path
3.1 Click on the “Test” link to take the short pre-assessment of
concepts
3.1.1 Read the quiz question
3.1.2 Click the radio button to the choice to select your answer
3.1.3 Click the “submit” button to save and submit your answers
3.1.4 View score
3.2 Click on “Train” to view video lessons
3.2.2 Click on a video link to learn about the concepts
3.2.3 Click the “play” button to watch the video
3.2.4 Click the space outside the video player to close the video
22
3.4.5 Read the reminder points regarding the research process
3.4.6 Click the “Exit” button to return to the simulation
4.0 Take the Quiz
4.1 Click the “Take Preparation Quiz Now” button at the bottom of the
page
4.2 Click the radio button to next to the choice to select your answer
4.3 Click the “Submit” button to save and submit your answers
4.4. Return to the beginning, click on “Access Preparation Module” at
bottom of page
23
1.2.1.2. Relaxed, but not sloppy
1.2.2.Avoid slouching
1.2.2.1. Leaning to one side
1.2.2.2. Resting head in hands
1.2.3.Avoid fidgeting
1.3. Maintain eye contact
1.3.1.Look directly at interviewer
1.3.2.Avoid wandering eyes around the room
1.3.3.Avoid glazed expression
1.3.4.Avoid looking at watch/phone
1.4. Respect the interviewer’s space
1.4.1.Remain within 1 foot of space around chair
1.4.2.Avoid leaning on interviewer’s desk
1.4.3.Avoid touching interviewer’s personal items on desk (e.g.,
pictures, figures, etc.)
1.4.4.Avoid reading interviewer’s computer screen if visible
1.4.5.Do not force a handshake if not offered
1.5. Ask questions
1.5.1.Relevant to conversation
1.5.2.Ask at appropriate time, do not interrupt interviewer
1.5.3.Avoid questions:
o That start with “why?”
o Regarding salary
o Regarding vacation or sick leave
o Regarding teleworking
o Regarding promotion schedules
o Regarding monitoring of social media profiles
1.5.4.Ask appropriate questions:
o Company culture
24
o New employee orientation procedures
o What the interviewer likes most about working at the company
o How employees and teams collaborate
o What the interviewer expects from the person seeking the
position
1.6. Articulate when speaking
1.6.1.Avoid mumbling
1.6.2.Think about the answer to the question before speaking
1.6.3.Avoid using slang and profanity
1.6.4.Answer questions succinctly
25
1.5 You have arrived at the Training Path page
2.0 Access the Main Interview module
2.1 Find the Main Interview training path
2.1.1 Locate the square with the pen icon
2.1.2 Click the icon to begin
3.0 Determine preferred training path by choosing from the following:
3.1 Click on the “Test” link to take the short pre-assessment of
Concepts
3.1.1 Read the quiz question
3.1.2 Click the radio button next to the choice to select your
answer
3.1.3 Click the “Submit” button to save and submit your answers
3.1.4 View score
3.2 Click on “Train” to interact with video lessons presenting
Concepts
3.2.1 Click on a video link to learn about the concepts involved
with interviewing
3.2.2 Click the “play” button to watch the video
3.2.3 Click the space outside the video player to close the video
3.3 Click on “Practice” to participate in the simulation
3.3.1 Choose an Avatar for the simulation
3.3.2 View the Simulation dialogue
3.3.2.1 Toggle the audio button on to enable the sound
for the dialogue prompts
3.3.2.2 Read or listen to the dialogue prompts
3.3.2.3 Read or listen to the possible responses to the
prompts
3.3.2.4 Click on the chosen response to the prompts
26
3.3.2.5 Read the feedback for the chosen response to
the prompts
3.3.2.6 Click the “Next” button to advance to the next
dialogue prompt
3.3.2.7 View score
3.4 Click on “Assess” to take the module quiz
3.4.1 Read the quiz question
3.4.2 Click the radio button next to the choice to select your
answer
3.4.3 Click the “Submit” button to save and submit your answers
3.4.4 View score
3.5 Complete the Main Interview training path module is complete
3.5.1 Click “Download Results” to view training path score
3.5.2 Save or print score results
27
II-A Formative Evaluation
Overview
The following describes a protocol to assess the learner reaction to the
interview simulation website prototype. The development team decided to
use Kirkpatrick’s New World Model to design formative evaluation
instruments to assess not only learner satisfaction, but also usability,
engagement and relevance. The team has identified stakeholders to survey,
interview and collect feedback throughout the development to improve the
usability and increase the knowledge and skills learners gain from the
instruction.
Identifying Stakeholders
To gain a three hundred sixty-degree feedback snapshot, we intend to
collect data from: a sample of learners from our target population,
employers and/or individuals who have conducted interviews from various
sectors (e.g., academia, government, corporate, etc.), usability experts, and
subject matter experts such as career development professionals from
community colleges.
Target Learners
28
○ Did it feel like a learning experience about improving interview
skills?
● Was the website easy to use?
● Is the lesson component of the learning experience engaging?
● Is the simulation component of the learning experience engaging?
● Does the experience motivate the learner to persist through the
simulation?
● Did the lesson keep the students’ attention?
● Did the simulation keep the students’ attention?
● Which elements did not work or did not meet expectations?
● What improvements can be made?
Employers
Usability Experts
29
● Is the content presented in the simulation component relevant to
current standards in interview skills?
● Is the simulation component realistic to what a target learner might
experience in a real-world interview scenario?
The formative evaluation protocol will occur in three stages. The first
stage assesses the usability and website structure, the second assesses
content validity, and the third will pilot the website using a sample of
learners from the target population. Although data for all of the key
variables and questions will be collected throughout each stage, it seemed
logical to optimize usability first to ensure users are able to navigate to
website. Once the usability experts have provided feedback and
improvements are made, the team can then proceed with stage two and
collect feedback on the relevance of the content and received feedback from
employers and SMEs. Upon completing two iterations of collecting feedback
and making improvements, the development team is confident the prototype
site will be ready for a pilot test. A detailed step-by-step protocol can be
found below:
30
2.1. Identify 5-10 SMEs from various sectors
2.2. Provide SMEs with the website
2.3. Administer the “SME Survey”
2.4. Analyze and summarize survey data
2.5. Request participants for follow-up interviews
2.6. Conduct interviews with SMEs using “SME Interview Questions”
2.7. Analyze and summarize interview data
2.8. Use survey and interview findings to make improvements to the
prototype
3. Stage 3: Pilot
3.1. Survey Sample
3.1.1. Identify at least twenty individuals from the target learner
population
3.1.2. Provide learners with website and use cases
3.1.3. Administer “Pilot Survey”
3.2. Think-Aloud Sample
3.2.1. Identify 2-3 individuals to participate in think-aloud
session
3.2.2. Administer “Think-Aloud Procedure” with various use cases
3.2.3. Ask students to describe their thought processes while
navigating the site and working through the lessons and
simulations
3.2.4. Record observations from think-aloud session
3.2.5. Conduct follow-up interview with think-aloud participants
using the “Think-Aloud Interview Questions”
3.2.6. Analyze and summarize survey and think-aloud data
3.2.7. Use survey and think-aloud findings to make
improvements to the prototype
See Appendix A.2 for Instruments for Formative Evaluation
31
II-B Summative Evaluation
Overview
32
form to the development team so in order to determine if learners overall
are meeting the benchmarks articulated in the learning outcomes.
Lesson assessments are administered immediately upon completion.
They consist of five multiple choice items aligned with the material covered
in just that lesson. The benchmark is 3 out of 5 correct on each quiz to
recommend the learner proceed to a simulation. If a learner achieves a
score of 2 or less, it is recommended they work through the lesson again.
However, the learner has the option to proceed to the simulation if they
wish. An example of a lesson assessment is available in Appendix A.
Simulations are designed to progress based on decisions made by the
learner. The interview scenario is interactive, and the learner is allowed to
choose their avatar’s next action by answering questions about behaviors
covered in the lessons. They are provided immediate feedback as to whether
or not they made the correct decision and are allowed to go back and
change their option. Upon completion of the scenario, the student dashboard
displays the number of correct versus incorrect decisions that were made.
The benchmark is less than 3 incorrect decisions made during the course of
the interview to recommend the learner proceed to the next lesson or finish
the training. If a learner makes 3 or more decision errors, it is recommended
they conduct another simulation in the same module. However, the learner
has the option to proceed to the next lesson or complete the training if they
wish. An example of a simulation decision feedback screenshot is available in
Appendix A.
33
is administered to them via email approximately one week after their
interview. If the learner does not specify a specific interview date, the post
training survey is administered one month upon completion of all the
training modules on the website. The learners are able to update an
interview date in their dashboard at any time. The survey asks respondents
to reflect on what they learned while completing lessons and simulations,
and determine if what they learned helped them during their interview. The
goal of the survey is to ascertain if learners perceive the material presented
on the website will help them obtain a job.
34
III-A Learner Analysis
Overview
The Ace the Interview: Interpersonal Skills for Adult Job Seekers on-
demand, web-based training will focus on adult learners in need of interview
training and basic job-seeking skills. The target audience may include the
following types of learners: disconnected young adults, prisoners preparing
for reentry, military spouses, stay-at-home parents and caretakers,
millennials, retirees, veterans, the disabled, and immigrants. They may also
possess developmental skills in reading, writing, and computer literacy. By
analyzing the target training audience through orienting, instructional, and
transfer contexts, we will create appropriate instructional simulation modules
to prepare the job-seeker for the interview process. Data for the learner
analysis will be compiled through surveys, questionnaires, websites and
extant information.
Learner Factors
35
Orienting Context Questions Data Collection
Method
36
Orienting Context Questions Data Collection
Method
services
37
Instructional Context Questions Data Collection
Method
a. Formative response
b. Summative response
c. Acquisition of badges for each
d. Scaffolding
38
5. Will the learner have the opportunity to provide Survey:
feedback regarding the site experience? Target audience
Assumptions
39
III-B Contextual Analysis
Overview
The Ace the Interview: Interpersonal Skills for Adult Job Seekers on-
demand, web-based site will include a context design attentive to adult
learners in need of interview training and basic job-seeking skills. This
contextual analysis will be divided and subdivided between orienting,
instructional and transfer contexts, including immediate environment
considerations and organizational considerations. Using an Instructivist
pedagogical approach to support learners with low levels of prior knowledge,
we will create virtual simulation modules to prepare the job-seeker for the
interview process within a low-risk context using any device with a browser
and network connection. Data collection for the contextual analysis will be
compiled through accessibility services, surveys, user testing, budget
analysis, interviews and extant information from the data collected in the
learner analysis.
40
the site? 2. Needs analysis
2. Is there an instructional need for this 3. Survey (learner)
site? 4. Survey (industry HR
3. What will the cost be to monitor and personnel)
update the site? 5. Interview (workforce
4. Will the learners have sufficient prior boards, career centers)
knowledge to utilize the site?
5. How will career centers, workforce
boards and labor bureaus direct
learners to the site?
41
Transfer Context Data Collection
Assumptions
42
are extrinsically and intrinsically motivated to participate in the
interview simulations.
2. Familiarity with accessing and navigating a website is assumed, as well
as the ability to complete online quizzes and questionnaires.
3. It is also assumed that learners have access to the Internet and that
their devices have a web browser installed that is compatible with the
website.
4. It is assumed that when engaged with the website, learners are
situated in a quiet place free from distractions.
5. It is assumed that learners are using a mobile device or a computer
and they have access to a strong Internet connection.
6. It is assumed that learners have adequate light conditions and a
screen size that allows them to easily read the site content, and that
they have headphones or earbuds that allow them to hear the audio
narration if they choose to activate it.
43
III-C Types of Learning/Experiences/Instruction
The learning experiences are comprised of instruction using video and
first-person role-play simulations. The initial content presentation is done in
the form of micro-lessons in lecture format, sample interview scenarios, and
first-person point-of-view simulations. Scaffolding takes place through
mainly generative strategies: the eLearning sessions are learner-directed so
students have the freedom to determine their own training path depending
on their prior knowledge and experience with the individual topics.
Instructional sessions can take place on mobile and desktop devices with
internet capabilities.
44
See Appendix B.1 for the Table of Learning Experiences and Instructional
Strategies
45
III-D Materials for Training Program or Learning
System
Sample materials have been created and provided for the following modules
of the training website “Ace the Interview”:
• Interview Preparation
• Main Interview
These modules address Goal 1 and Goal 3 and their underlying objectives
of the training program. The modules contain videos and multimedia,
interactive activities, and assessments measuring pre- and post-training
competence. Learners can download their detailed score results after taking
each module’s final assessment. Score results are broken down and scored
by each topic’s learning outcomes, highlighting learners’ strengths and
weaknesses in topic areas.
The training is self-paced, and progress meters track learners’
progress through the activities. The site is ungated, and learners can choose
their entry into the material. For instance, if learners want to access the
content of the micro-lessons first, then they can skip to the Training section.
If learners want to first explore the simulated environments, then they are
free to enter the Practice section.
46
III-E Implementation Plan
The Ace the Interview: Interpersonal Skills for Adult Job Seekers on-
demand, web-based site is designed for adult learners seeking interview
training and basic job-seeking skills. The virtual learning site may be
accessed from any computer or device with a browser and internet
connection. Learners may gain access to the mobile friendly site from any
location, at any time; day or night. The self-paced eLearning sessions utilize
audio and animations to provide virtual simulations of preparation, training,
practice and assessment. The site offers micro-lessons of first-person role-
play simulations and suggested learning paths for specific training modules.
Funding for the Ace the Interview: Interpersonal Skills for Adult Job
Seekers website is provided by the nonprofit company, Hire Me, which
provides outreach and supports economic opportunities for nontraditional
students.
47
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49
Appendix A: Needs Assessment and Evaluation Materials
Part 1
• Data sought: actuals (stage 1: preparation)
• Typology: behavior or knowledge/skills
Part 2
• Data sought: feelings (stage 3: interview body)
• Typology: attitudes/feelings or beliefs
Part 3
• Data sought: optimals and actuals (stage 2: introductions and stage
4: conclusions)
• Typology: attitudes and beliefs
Part 4
• Data sought: causes
• Typology: attitudes/feelings or beliefs
Part 1
Directions: For each of the statements below, indicate the frequency with
which you perform the described tasks.
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often sometimes rarely never
3. Before a job interview, I prepare by a brief “elevator speech” to provide
an overview of my background, experiences, and goals.
often sometimes rarely never
4. Before a job interview, I prepare a list of questions to ask the employer
about the organization and the job during the interview.
often sometimes rarely never
5. On the day of the job interview, I allow extra time to carefully plan my
attire and make sure I present a professional appearance.
often sometimes rarely never
6. Before a job interview, I cover my tattoos and remove jewelry from facial
piercings in order to appear more professional.
often sometimes rarely never
Part 2
Directions: For each of the statements below, indicate the extent to which
you agree or disagree.
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3. During a job interview, I am afraid to ask questions for clarification or to
indicate that I don’t know the answer to a question.
strongly agree agree somewhat disagree strongly
disagree
Part 3
Indicate the level of Indicate your level of
importance related confidence in your
to helping ability to perform the
Interview Behavior applicants having a task.
successful job
interview. 1 = not confident
5 = very confident
1 = not important
5 = very important
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Indicate the level of Indicate your level of
importance related confidence in your
to helping ability to perform the
Interview Behavior applicants having a task.
successful job
interview. 1 = not confident
5 = very confident
1 = not important
5 = very important
Part 4
Directions: Below are some possible reasons why an applicant may not have
a successful job interview experience. Rank each item on a scale of 1 (most
important) to 5 (least important) possible reasons why a job applicant may
not successfully pass beyond the first round interview stage.
________I don’t feel that I have enough preparation time before the
job interview to fully research the company and job position.
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________I feel that I don’t have enough training from outside
regarding job interview training.
________ Job interview skills are not something a person can practice
beforehand; it is simply a skill that some people either have or don’t
have.
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Funding for the Ace the Interview: Interpersonal Skills for Adult Job Seekers
web site is provided by the nonprofit company, Hire Me, which provides
outreach and supports economic opportunities for nontraditional students.
Interview questions
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interview
2. Follow up to #1: Can you give
some specific details or
examples that help
demonstrate your choice?
3. Can you provide any other
areas not mentioned in the first
question where interviewees
struggle during job interviews?
4. Describe the behavior (verbal
and non-verbal) of a typical
interviewee in your field of
work.
1. Describe the ideal
characteristics of a successful
Optimal job interview of a potential
performance employee.
2. Follow up to question #1you’re
your opinion, which of these
characteristics matter most to
employers during the job
interview process? Why?
3. What is the relationship
between the ideal
characteristics mentioned
above and future job
performance of potential
employees?
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1. In your opinion, what can job
Solutions to the interviewees do to better
problem prepare themselves for the job
interview process?
2. What specific skills should
interviewees focus their
training efforts on?
3. What specific behaviors should
interviewees practice to
improve their job interview
performance?
Conclusion of interview
Usability [U]
Relevance [R]
Satisfaction [S]
Motivation [M]
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A.2.1 Instrument: SME Survey
Sample: Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)
Scale overview:
• 11-item survey
⁃ 7 Likert-scale items with open response supplemental questions
⁃ 4 open response items
(Likert)
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⁃ Please explain
• The content is relevant to learners with varying interview skill levels
[R]
⁃ Please explain
(Open-ended)
Stage 3: Pilot
Scale overview:
• 15-item survey
⁃ 14 Likert-scale items with open response supplemental questions
⁃ 1 open response item
(Likert)
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• I was able to navigate the menu without difficulty [U]
⁃ Please explain
• The website layout was confusing [U] (reverse code)
⁃ Please explain
• I was able to complete the use cases provided to me in the
instructions [U]
⁃ Please explain
• The material covered in the lesson portion was engaging [E]
⁃ Please explain
• The simulation portion was engaging [E]
⁃ Please explain
• I found it difficult to pay attention during the lesson [E]
⁃ Please explain
• I found it difficult to pay attention during the simulation [E]
⁃ Please explain
• I was motivated to persist through the lesson and simulation [M]
⁃ Please explain
• I am motivated to return to the website to learn about a different part
of the interview process [M]
⁃ Please explain
• I am satisfied with the website overall [S]
⁃ Please explain
• I am satisfied with my learning experience [S]
⁃ Please explain
• I am satisfied with the breadth of content covered [S]
⁃ Please explain
• I wish there were more content included [S]
⁃ Please explain
(Open-ended)
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• Please provide any additional questions or comments you have about
the website’s usability, content, or your learning experience.
(Preparation Module)
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(Main Interview Module)
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Example of a Dashboard (provides immediate feedback to learner)
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A.3.2. Instrument: Follow-Up Self-Assessment
Q1 Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements.
Identify
types of
questions I
might be
asked
during an
interview
Identify
helpful
sources to
research a
company
prior to an
interview
Determine
how my
skill-set
aligns with a
job
description
Choose an
outfit that
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would be
appropriate
for an
interview
Identify
appropriate
questions to
ask an
interviewer
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Upon completing the Interview Introduction Simulation, I am able to...
Describe
appropriate
interview
behaviors
Provide a
well-thought
out answer to
a question an
employer
asks
Describe
appropriate
and
inappropriate
body
language
postures
Describe what
to do and
what not to
do when
conversing
with a
potential
employer
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Q3 Please rate your level of agreement with the following statements.
Distinguish
between
items I
should bring
to an
interview
and items I
should leave
behind
Describe
how to give
an
appropriate
handshake
to a
potential
employer
Determine
when I
should arrive
for an
interview
Describe
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how my
body
language
may affect
an
employer's
first
impression
of me
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Upon completing the Conclusion Interview Simulation, I am able to...
Describe how
to thank an
interviewer
Explain the
appropriate
circumstances
to shake the
employer's
hand
Explain how
to summarize
my strengths
and how I fit
a position if I
had not done
so earlier in
the interview
Describe
when it is
appropriate to
offer a
business card
Describe
when to send
a thank you
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note to the
employer
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Q5 Please rate your level of confidence with conducting the following
actions. Upon completing all the Ace the Interview Website Simulations, I
am able to...
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Avoid mumbling
Avoid interrupting my
interviewer
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Appendix B: Materials, Schedules and Implementation
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preparation cognitive load;
steps offer incremental
interviewees and chunked
take before a job learning; provide
interview non-linguistic
representations
1.2 Upon skills; self-assessment, learner-to-
completion of self-checks and self/content:
the Preparation application: apply retests; transfer provide choices
simulation(s), strategies from knowledge; of authentic and
jobseekers will micro-lessons by participate in relevant
complete preparing for first person POV experiences with
preparation sample interview, simulations scaffolding
steps for a given demonstrate
job interview ability to apply
scenario strategies during a
simulation
evaluation: self-
assess
performance of past
experiences with
interview
preparation
analysis:
compare/contrast
past experience
with preparation
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with suggestions in
micro-lessons
Goal 2: Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful attitude
during the introduction stage of the interview by proficient completion of
virtual scenarios.
Behavior Type of Learning Instructional Interaction
Learning (domain and Strategy
Objectives Bloom’s level)
2.1 Upon knowledge; learner-to-
completion of lecture, present, content:
the Introduction understand: demonstrate, micro-lessons
Simulation(s), identify key tutorials and provide a variety
job seekers will components of an how-tos, of examples and
explain the introduction; questions, help manage
elements of a summarizing, cognitive load;
successful analysis: similarities and offer incremental
introduction to a compare/contrast differences and chunked
potential sample interviews learning; provide
employer in videos to non-linguistic
discover desired representations
outcomes
2.2 Upon skills; learner-to-
completion of authentic self/content:
the Introduction application: apply problem provide choices
Simulation(s), strategies from scenarios, of authentic and
job seekers will micro-lessons to simulations, relevant
select interview scenarios transfer tasks; experiences with
appropriate self-assessment, scaffolding
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introduction evaluation: self- self-checks and
action during an assess retests
interview performance in
scenario using simulation using a
the simulation ranking scale
avatar among interview
component skills
analysis:
analyze the
interactions in non-
examples; select
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new appropriate
behavior in non-
examples that will
result in the desired
outcome
Goal 4: Job seekers will convey a confident, positive, and respectful attitude
at the conclusion of the interview by proficient completion of virtual
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scenarios.
Behavior Type of Learning Instructional Interaction
Learning (domain and Strategy
Objectives Bloom’s level)
4.1 Upon knowledge, lecture, learner-to-
completion of presentation, content
the conclusion understand: demonstration,
simulations(s), identify from a list simulations
job seekers will the steps in
describe how to concluding an
appropriately interview
exit from the
interview
4.2 Upon knowledge, lecture, learner-to-
completion of presentation, content
the conclusion understand: demonstration,
simulations(s), identify situations simulations
job seekers will in which it is
explain when to appropriate to send
follow-up/send a a follow-up
thank you note
to the
interviewer
4.3 Upon skills, learner-to-
completion of authentic content/self
the conclusion application problem
simulations(s), participate in 3rd scenarios,
job seekers will person mini-role simulations,
select play situation, transfer tasks;
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appropriate choose the best self-assessment,
interview course of action to self-checks and
conclusion finish the retests
behaviors during interaction in an
an interview appropriate way
scenario using
simulation evaluation: self-
avatar. assess
performance in
simulation using a
ranking scale
among interview
component skills
Included in this section are samples of each type of activity from the website
“Ace the Interview.”
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Ace the Interview home page:
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Preparation Module training path page:
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Preparation Module - Test path – quiz results:
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Preparation Module – Train path - training video:
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Main Interview – Practice path – simulation sample:
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Preparation Module – Assess track – quiz results:
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Preparation Module – Downloaded score sheet for the Preparation
training path:
Topic/Subtopic Score %
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Determine how to align skill-sets with job description 100
qualifications
Company stability
Benefits package
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Verbally practice appropriate questions
Implementation Schedule
July 17, 2017 Send wireframe to web developer for design and
development. Colors, fonts, logos are selected and added.
Evaluate and review each cycle of revision until
satisfactory--present final draft to manager and director for
review and approval. Meanwhile, write content and produce
multimedia elements. (4-12 weeks)
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and accessibility audit service. Test every link and run a
spell-check or send to a proofer. Update public relations
department with details of launch date. (1-2 weeks)
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