Nathan Thompson articles
¿Qué es la Teoría de Respuesta al Ítem (TRÍ)?
La teoría de respuesta al ítem (TRÍ) es una familia de modelos de aprendizaje automático en el campo de la psicometría, que se utilizan para diseñar, analizar, validar y puntuar evaluaciones. Se trata de un
Addressing Pre-Knowledge in Exam Cheating
In the realm of academic dishonesty and high-stakes exams such as Certification, the term “pre-knowledge” is an important concern in test security and validity. Understanding what pre-knowledge entails and its implications in exam cheating can
Setting a Cutscore to Item Response Theory
Setting a cutscore on a test scored with item response theory (IRT) requires some psychometric knowledge. This post will get you started. How do I set a cutscore with item response theory? There are two
What are technology enhanced items?
Technology-enhanced items are assessment items (questions) that utilize technology to improve the interaction of a test question in digital assessment, over and above what is possible with paper. Tech-enhanced items can improve examinee engagement (important
Modified-Angoff Method Study
A modified-Angoff method study is one of the most common ways to set a defensible cutscore on an exam. It therefore means that the pass/fail decisions made by the test are more trustworthy than if
What is Item Response Theory (IRT)?
Item response theory (IRT) is a family of machine learning models in the field of psychometrics, which are used to design, analyze, validate, and score assessments. It is a very powerful psychometric paradigm that revolutionized
Criterion-related validity
Criterion-related validity is evidence that test scores are related to other data which we expect them to be. This is an essential part of the larger issue of test score validity, which is providing evidence
Why PARCC EBSR Items Provide Bad Data
The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) is a consortium of US States working together to develop educational assessments aligned with the Common Core State Standards. This is a daunting task,
What is Test Scaling?
Scaling is a psychometric term regarding the establishment of a score metric for a test, and it often has two meanings. First, it involves defining the method to operationally scoring the test, establishing an underlying
Certification Exam Development and Delivery
Certification exam and delivery are critical business needs for credentialing organizations, which are often outsourced. It refers to the process of building an exam in accordance to international standards like NCCA, then delivering it securely,
What is a T score in Assessment?
A T Score is a conversion of scores on a test to a standardized scale with a mean of 50 and standard deviation of 10. This is a common example of a scaled score in
What is the Spearman-Brown formula?
The Spearman-Brown formula, also known as the Spearman-Brown Prophecy Formula or Correction, is a method used in evaluating test reliability. It is based on the idea that split-half reliability has better assumptions than coefficient alpha
Item Writing: Tips for Authoring Test Questions
Item writing (aka item authoring) is a science as well as an art, and if you have done it, you know just how challenging it can be! You are experts at what you do, and
Validity Threats and Psychometric Forensics
Validity threats are issues with a test or assessment that hinder the interpretations and use of scores, such as cheating, inappropriate use of scores, unfair preparation, or non-standardized delivery. It is important to establish a
Item Review Workflow for Exam Development
Item review is the process of ensuring that newly-written test questions go through a rigorous peer review, to ensure that they are high quality and meet industry standards. What is an item review workflow? Developing
Likert Scale Items
Likert scales (items) are a type of item used in human psychoeducational assessment, primarily to assess noncognitive constructs. That is, while item types like multiple choice or short answer are used to measure knowledge or
What are Stackable Credentials?
Stackable credentials refer to the practice of accumulating a series of credentials such as certifications or microcredentials over time. In today’s rapidly evolving job market, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for career success. Employers
Test Blueprints & Specifications
Test blueprints, aka test specifications (shortened to “test specs”), are the formalized design of an assessment, test, or exam. This can be in the context of educational assessment, pre-employment, certification, licensure, or any other type.