Computerized Adaptive Testing : A Primer

This celebrated primer presents an introduction to all of the key ingredients in understanding computerized adaptive testing technology, test development, statistics, and mental test theory. Based on years of research, this accessible book educates the novice and serves as a compendium of state-of-the-art information for professionals interested in computerized testing in the areas of education, psychology, and other related social sciences. A hypothetical test taken as a prelude to employment is used as a common example throughout to highlight this book's most important features and problems. Changes in the new edition include: \*a completely rewritten chapter 2 on the system considerations needed for modern computerized adaptive testing; \*a revised chapter 4 to include the latest in methodology surrounding online calibration and in the modeling of testlets; and \*a new chapter 10 with helpful information on how test items are really selected, usage patterns, how usage patterns influence the number of new items required, and tools for managing item pools. Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) is now entering a new phase of its existence, having developed into a viable alternative form of measurement backed by rigorous technology involving far more than hardware and software. Computer technology, test development, statistics, and mental test theory all play a Role in CAT and are thus united in this primer. Based on 40 years of solid research, this book will educate the novice and serve as a compendium of state-of-the-art data for professionals. A hypothetical test taken as a prelude to employment, the "Gedanken Computerized Adaptive Test", is used throughout as a common example that highlights important features and problems presented by different types of computerized testing. This second edition includes updating of material on hardware, reflects new results for on-line calibration, and contains one completely new chapter on when it is practical to computerize a test. It also includes new results about item exposure problems under existing exposure controls. "This primer presents an introduction to all of the key ingredients in understanding computerized adaptive testing - technology, test development, statistics, and mental test theory. Based on years of research, this book educates the novice and serves as a compendium of state-of-the-art information for professionals interested in computerized testing in the areas of education, psychology, and other related social sciences. A hypothetical test, taken as a prelude to employment, is used as a common example throughout to highlight the book's most important features and problems."--Jacket As we approach the end of the twentieth century we see the influence of computers all around us.