Video Games in Job Interviews: Using Algorithms to Minimize Discrimination and Unconscious Bias

ABA Journal of Labor & Employment Law, vol. 32 (2017)

34 Pages Posted: 22 Dec 2016

See all articles by David Savage

David Savage

Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law, Students

Richard A. Bales

Ohio Northern University - Pettit College of Law

Date Written: December 19, 2016

Abstract

As the number of applicants for many job openings grows into the thousands, employers have searched for methods to efficiently sort through these applications and compile a shorter list of individuals to interview for open positions. One method growing in popularity is using algorithms to analyze statistical information and determine the candidates that will perform the best if hired based on factors such as cognitive ability, management skills, and workplace performance. Predictive analytics involving algorithms are being used by 8% of companies in the United States. Some of these employers have had applicants play video games created by developers that use these algorithms to analyze their performance and select the best candidates for the job. Scholars have argued that the use of algorithms in general and in video games may lead to discrimination in the workplace. Although any type of employment practice can cause discrimination, this article argues that the use of algorithms in video games to evaluate job candidates may be a cost-effective and beneficial business method that can help avoid discrimination. If created and administered carefully, video games using algorithms have the ability to minimize human bias, including unconscious bias, from the initial job hiring process.

Suggested Citation

Savage, David and Bales, Richard A., Video Games in Job Interviews: Using Algorithms to Minimize Discrimination and Unconscious Bias (December 19, 2016). ABA Journal of Labor & Employment Law, vol. 32 (2017), Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2887757

David Savage

Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law, Students ( email )

525 South Main Street
Ada, OH 45801
United States

Richard A. Bales (Contact Author)

Ohio Northern University - Pettit College of Law ( email )

525 South Main Street
Ada, OH 45810
United States
419-772-2205 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://law.onu.edu/node/3073

Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?

Paper statistics

Downloads
982
Abstract Views
2,850
Rank
43,143
PlumX Metrics