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Removing the Effects of Random Guessing From Latent Trait Ability Estimates NICHD

Author(s):
Waller, Michael I
Publication Year:
1974
Report Number:
RB-74-32
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
52
Subject/Key Words:
National Institute for Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Ability, Guessing Tests, Mathematical Models, Multiple Choice Tests, Response Style (Tests)

Abstract

In latent trait models the standard procedure for handling the problem caused by guessing on multiple choice tests is to estimate a parameter which is intended to measure the "guessingness" inherent in an item. Birnbaum's three parameter model which handles guessing in this manner, ignores individual differences in guessing tendency. This paper presents a model or procedure which uses the information contained in the interaction between a person and an item to remove the effects of random guessing from estimates of ability difficulty, and discrimination. Simulated and real data are presented which support the model in terms of fit and information. (Author/RC) (52pp.)

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