What method would most likely be used to assess a candidate's technical skills in a specific job role?

Work sampling is an effective method used to assess a candidate's technical skills because it involves observing and evaluating a candidate's performance in real or simulated work situations. This approach provides a practical demonstration of how the candidate would perform specific tasks relevant to the job role, allowing employers to gauge their true capability and proficiency in the technical aspects required for the position.

This method focuses on actual work tasks, which can yield more relevant insights into a candidate's skills compared to other methods. In contrast, interviews primarily assess candidates' communication skills and their ability to articulate their experiences, but may not reliably reveal technical competencies. Cognitive tests measure general mental capabilities but do not directly assess job-specific technical skills. References can provide insights into a candidate's past performance but lack the immediacy and direct observation provided by work sampling. Thus, work sampling stands out as the most suitable option for assessing technical skills in a practical context.