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A Multidimensional Latent Trait Model for Measuring Learning and Change

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2025

Susan E. Embretson
Susan E. Embretson*
Affiliation:
University of Kansas
*
Requests for reprints should be sent to Susan Embretson, Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045.
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Abstract

A latent trait model is presented for the repeated measurement of ability based on a multidimensional conceptualization of the change process. A simplex structure is postulated to link item performance under a given measurement condition or occasion to initial ability and to one or more modifiabilities that represent individual differences in change. Since item discriminations are constrained to be equal within a measurement condition, the model belongs to the family of multidimensional Rasch models. Maximum likelihood estimators of the item parameters and abilities are derived, and an example provided that shows good recovery of both item and ability parameters. Properties of the model are explored, particularly for several classical issues in measuring change.

Keywords

change measurementRasch modelstest theorysimplex models
Type
Original Paper
Information
Psychometrika , Volume 56 , Issue 3 , September 1991 , pp. 495 - 515
Copyright
Copyright © 1991 The Psychometric Society

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