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Possible Determinants of Gender DIF on the Advanced Placement Psychology Test: Familiarity, Interest, and Emotional Reaction AP DIF

Author(s):
Stricker, Lawrence J.; Emmerich, Walter
Publication Year:
1997
Report Number:
RR-97-24
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
60
Subject/Key Words:
Advanced Placement Program (AP), Differential Item Functioning (DIF), Performance Factors, Psychology, Sex Differences, Student Attitudes, Student Interests

Abstract

This study evaluated the connection between gender differences in Advanced Placement (AP®) Psychology students' familiarity, interest, and negative emotional reaction to items on the AP Psychology test and the items' gender differential item functioning (DIF). Gender DIF and gender differences in interest and emotional reaction varied appreciably with the content of the items. Gender differences in the three variables were substantially related to the items' gender DIF (e.g., R = .50). Much of the gender DIF on this test may be attributable to gender differences in these variables.

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