CritiCall Dispatcher flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

CritiCall purpose

A computer-based battery used by public-safety agencies to predict whether candidates can perform dispatch tasks such as prioritizing calls, cross-referencing data, and entering information accurately under time pressure.

Call prioritization order

Rank emergencies by immediate threat to life first, then in-progress incidents with injury risk, then non-urgent reports, and administrative requests last; dispatch resources follow that order.

Cross-referencing task

A test module where the candidate compares names, numbers, or addresses across two or more lists and flags matches or discrepancies; accuracy and speed are both scored.

Memory recall module

The candidate hears or reads caller information, then answers questions about it after a delay; scoring counts correctly retained details such as names, numbers, and locations.

Map reading module

Candidates interpret a displayed map to identify locations, directions, or shortest routes between points; the task measures spatial reasoning relevant to unit dispatching.

Data entry under speed

A timed module requiring accurate keyboard entry of names, addresses, or numbers; uncorrected keystroke errors reduce the score more than slow but correct entry.

Spelling and grammar module

Candidates identify or correct spelling, punctuation, and sentence-structure errors in dispatch-style text; the module reflects the need for clear written records.

Character comparison task

Candidates decide whether two strings such as license plates or VINs are identical; single-character differences must be detected, so scanning strategy matters.

Decision-making scenarios

Ambiguous situational items with multiple plausible actions; the best answer follows priority-of-life logic, policy, and escalation order rather than personal judgment.

Multi-tasking audio module

The candidate listens to recorded information while simultaneously entering or matching data; score reflects correct entries completed within the time limit.

Typing accuracy weighting

Accuracy is scored separately from speed and carries greater weight because errors in CAD entries or relayed messages create operational and safety risks.

Reading comprehension module

Candidates read short passages or policy excerpts and answer questions about them; the task measures the ability to extract relevant facts quickly.

Flexibility module

Rules or priorities change partway through the task, and the candidate must switch responses accordingly; it measures adaptability under changing instructions.

Standardized administration

All candidates receive identical instructions, time limits, device specifications, and environment rules so score differences reflect ability rather than testing conditions.

Test security controls

Measures such as single-use access links, proctoring, lockdown browsers, and restricted item exposure that prevent advance knowledge of test content or unfair assistance.

Accommodation request process

Candidates request adjustments such as extra time or assistive technology before the session; approvals and any deviations from standard conditions are documented in advance.

Pre-set cut score

A passing threshold established before testing begins, based on job analysis or validation evidence, rather than chosen after reviewing candidate results.

Score banding

Grouping similar scores into ranges treated as equivalent for selection decisions; bands reduce the impact of small measurement error between close scores.

Criterion-related validity

Evidence that test scores statistically predict job performance measures, such as supervisor ratings or training completion, for the target dispatcher role.

Content validity

Evidence that test tasks represent the actual knowledge and skills required on the job, established through job analysis and subject-matter expert review.

Test-retest reliability

The consistency of scores when the same candidates take an equivalent test on two occasions; high correlation indicates stable measurement over time.

Internal consistency

A reliability estimate showing whether items on a test measure the same underlying ability, often reported as a coefficient such as Cronbach's alpha.

Four-fifths rule

A screening indicator where a selection rate for any group below 80 percent of the highest group's rate suggests possible adverse impact and triggers further review.

Adverse impact analysis

Comparing selection rates across demographic groups to detect disparate outcomes; results prompt review of job-relatedness and validation evidence, not automatic invalidation.

Test record confidentiality

Candidate responses and scores are confidential personnel records with restricted access, defined retention periods, and secure storage per policy and law.

Technology failure protocol

A pre-written rule stating how interrupted attempts are handled, such as voiding and rescheduling, applied consistently to every affected candidate.

Proctoring methods

Supervision options including live remote proctors, recorded video review, or in-person monitoring; the chosen method must be applied equally to all candidates.

Practice test purpose

A low-stakes preview that familiarizes candidates with item formats and interface controls without revealing scored content or giving an unfair advantage.

Score reporting timeline

A stated schedule for when results are released to candidates and hiring managers, applied consistently so no candidate gains advance knowledge of outcomes.

Identity verification

Confirming each candidate's identity through photo ID or secure login before the test begins, preventing proxy testing and preserving score integrity.

Job analysis linkage

A documented process identifying the tasks and abilities of the dispatcher role, which then justifies which test modules are included and how they are weighted.

Retention of test data

A policy specifying how long responses and scores are stored, who may access them, and when they are destroyed, balancing legal holds and privacy obligations.