Evaluating scale-score correspondence between the original and a simplified language version of the Giotto integrity assessment

Abstract

Orientation: Integrity assessments are widely used in workplace selection and development, but linguistic complexity may affect respondents’ understanding and compromise assessment fairness in multilingual contexts.
Research purpose: This study examined preliminary scale-score correspondence between the original Giotto integrity assessment and a simplified-language version developed to support respondents with varying English-language proficiency.
Motivation for the study: In South Africa’s linguistically diverse labour market, assessment language may introduce construct-irrelevant variance. Simplified wording may improve accessibility while preserving the intended measurement purpose.
Research approach/design and method: A quantitative repeated-measures design was used. A sample of 165 working adults completed both the original and simplified-language versions of the Giotto instrument. Because the instrument uses an ipsative forced-choice format, conventional factor analysis and internal consistency estimation were not emphasised. Descriptive statistics, correlations between corresponding scale scores and supplementary exploratory Analysis of Variances (ANOVAs) were used to examine scale-score correspondence and demographic response patterns.
Main findings: Statistically significant moderate-to-good correlations were found between corresponding dimensions across the two versions, suggesting meaningful scale-score correspondence. Some demographic group differences varied across versions and require further investigation.
Practical/managerial implications: Simplified-language assessment formats may support fairer and more accessible workplace assessment practices, particularly in multilingual contexts.
Contribution/value-add: The study contributes preliminary South African evidence on language accessibility in integrity assessment while cautioning that full measurement equivalence was not established.