Methods for detecting item score patterns that are unlikely, given that a parametric item response theory model gives an adequate description of the data or given the responses of other persons in the group, are discussed. The use of person-fit statistics in empirical data analysis is briefly discussed. (SLD)

This article describes a method of incorporating two ability estimates into a single regression analysis so that substantially fewer items exhibit differential item functioning (DIF). Comparative analysis with the Mantel-Haenszel procedure also shows more accurate matching of examinees, preventing identifying multidimensional item impact as DIF.…

Building on previous research, this study examines the elements of the cloze context that affect performance by determining the extent to which item characteristics correlate with item difficulty. (47 references) (LB)

Item response theory (IRT) differential item functioning (DIF) methods used to determine the accuracy of item classification as biased or unbiased were studied. Results from simulations show that the iterative linking and ability scale purification method can be more effective than iterative linking alone primarily by reducing false negatives.…

Two structural laws for intelligence tests are discussed: one law concerns the sign of correlation coefficients and gives conditions under which all correlations between test items will be positive; and one law concerns the relative sizes of the correlation coefficients between intelligence items. A cylindrical structure extends these laws. (SLD)

A recent multidimensional scaling analysis of the Test of English-as-a-Foreign-Language (TOEFL) item response data identified clusters of items in the test sections that, being more homogeneous than their parent sections, might be better for diagnostic use. The analysis was repeated using different scoring techniques. Results diverged only for…

Item and factor analyses examined the psychometric characteristics of the White Racial Identity Attitude Scale based on data from 308 white college students. Then five trained judges assigned scale items to appropriate subscales. Results did not support the psychometric adequacy of the scale. (SK)

The capability of the DIMTEST statistical test in assessing essential unidimensionality of item responses to real tests was investigated for 22 real tests of at least 25 items and 700 or more examinees. DIMTEST results on real tests were able to discriminate between essentially unidimensional and multidimensional tests. (SLD)

Examined five Rasch-model-based item-fit indices in terms of their distributional properties and the power of detecting item bias or differential item functioning. Results indicate that, although these five standardized item-fit indices did not depart significantly from a normal distribution, the Type I error rates were not reasonable. (Author/SLD)

Reviews developments in nonparametric item-response theory (NIRT), from its historic origins in item-response theory (IRT) and scale analysis to new theoretical results for practical test construction. Discusses theoretical results from NIRT often relevant to IRT. Contains 134 references. (SLD)

Proposes two new methods for item-exposure control, the Progressive method and the Restricted Maximum Information method. Compares both methods with six other item-selection methods. Discusses advantages of the two new methods and the usefulness of combining them. (SLD)

This book provides a historical overview of item-response theory (IRT) and contains a compendium of item-response-theory research. Each of its six sections deals with a unique application of a model or a family of models. Requires a strong psychometric background to understand some of the discussions. (SLD)

Nurses' ability to think critically in clinical situations cannot be assessed by multiple-choice tests. Context-dependent test items that assess critical thinking are useful for orientation of new staff, competency testing, and clinical staff development. (SK)

Summarizes the benefits of computerized assessment and provides a review of some practical issues concerning measurement, item and examinee characteristics, hardware, and software. Adequate measures of reliability and validity have been established for many computer-based tests, and the benefits of computer testing have been realized in applied…

This brief history traces the development of item response theory (IRT) from concepts originating in 19th-century mathematics and psychology to present-day principles drawn from statistical estimation theory. Connections to other fields and current trends in IRT are outlined. (SLD)