Jan. 14, 2013: New scoring methods improve prediction of training success

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Release No: 005
Jan. 14, 2013

           
New scoring methods improve prediction of training success for pilot, combat systems officer, air battle manager candidates

By Tech. Sgt. Steve Grever
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs 

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO – RANDOLPH, Texas – The scoring methods used to evaluate pilot, combat systems officer and air battle manager candidates will undergo changes Feb. 14 with modifications to the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test rated composites and Pilot Candidate Selection Method scores.

AFOQT-Pilot, AFOQT-CSO and PCSM scores will change based on updated algorithms and scoring norms to improve prediction of pilot and combat system officer training outcomes. A separate AFOQT for ABM candidates will also be introduced.

“PCSM and AFOQT rated composites have proven to be valid, cost-effective selection tools since their inception,” said Dr. Lisa Hughes, the Air Force’s personnel testing chief. “The new algorithms further improve prediction of training completion and success by accounting for changes in the training pipelines and applicant pool that have occurred since 2006,” said Hughes.

The AFOQT rated composites assess cognitive ability and knowledge, while the PCSM scores assess a combination of cognitive ability, knowledge, psychomotor skill and experience as measured by the AFOQT-Pilot composite, Test of Basic Aviation Skills and flying hours. Results are combined using a mathematical algorithm to rank candidates based on their aptitude for success in pilot, CSO, or ABM training.

The final board using the current rated scoring system will be the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps board in February. The first selection board to use the new scores will be the August OTS selection board. Candidates will be able to check their new scores on the PCSM website at http://access.afpc.af.mil/pcsmdmz/index.html beginning Feb. 14.

Flying training candidates who have AFOQT or PCSM scores on file prior to Feb. 14 will have their scores automatically converted using the new method. Candidates will not be required to re-test on the TBAS, and only candidates who completed the AFOQT prior to 2006 (before implementation of AFOQT Form S) will be required to re-take the AFOQT. Candidates may verify whether their score of record is Form S on the Air Force Personnel Center’s AFOQT website at https://w20.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afoqtsnet20/default.aspx.

Candidates who have tested twice on the TBAS prior to February 14, 2013 will be authorized one additional TBAS attempt. AFOQT retesting policy remains unchanged.

“The Air Force’s personnel testing process, including the AFOQT and PCSM, has proven to be beneficial for both candidates and selection boards in predicting success over the long term,” said Hughes. “The PCSM office is committed to providing the most reliable and valid information possible and anticipates transitioning smoothly in support of Air Force pilot, CSO and ABM training goals.”

For more information, visit the PCSM website at http://access.afpc.af.mil/pcsmdmz/index.html. For general personnel information, visit the myPers website at http://mypers.af.mil.

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