Applications of Latent Trait Theory to the Development and Use of Criterion-Referenced Tests.

摘要

The success of criterion-referenced testing programs depends to a considerable extent upon how effectively tests are constructed, and test scores used to assign examinees to mastery states and/or to estimate examinee domain scores. Methodologies such as decision theory, Bayesian statistics, and generalizability theory have been used successfully to address a variety of technical matters (for example, reliability estimation and domain score estimation). The purpose of this paper was to consider latent trait theory as a framework for resolving some of the technical aspects associated with criterion-referenced tests. Specifically, advantages and disadvantages of latent trait theoretic concepts were considered; a discussion of past applications to test development and test score usage were provided; and directions for future research and development were offered. Keywords: Latent trait theory, Cognition, Mathematical models, Psychological tests, Aptitude tests. (SDW)