Examination of the predictive validity of Big Five personality dimensions across training performance criteria

This study examined relationships among Big Five personality dimensions, cognitive ability, and training performance in a sample of 370 Marines attending Marine Corps’ recruiter training. Several Big Five dimensions (Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness) significantly predicted performance on simulation-based training criteria but did not predict training performance on paper and pencil exams. The results indicated the importance of assessing personality against multiple criteria to determine the utility of personality in predicting training performance. Given that the recruiting of Marines has become particularly challenging, understanding and assessing characteristics that increase the likelihood of successful learning in the training environment is becoming more critical.