An item response tree model with not-all-distinct end nodes for non-response modelling.

The non-response model in Knott et al. (1991, Statistician, 40, 217) can be represented as a tree model with one branch for response/non-response and another branch for correct/incorrect response, and each branch probability is characterized by an item response theory model. In the model, it is assumed that there is only one source of non-responses.

Nonparametric CAT for CD in Educational Settings With Small Samples.

Cognitive diagnostic computerized adaptive testing (CD-CAT) has been suggested by researchers as a diagnostic tool for assessment and evaluation. Although model-based CD-CAT is relatively well researched in the context of large-scale assessment systems, this type of system has not received the same degree of research and development in small-scale settings, such as at the course-based level, where this system would be the most useful. The main obstacle is that the statistical estimation techniques that are successfully applied within the context of a large-scale assessment require large samples to guarantee reliable calibration of the item parameters and an accurate estimation of the examinees' proficiency class membership.

Unifying Differential Item Functioning in Factor Analysis for Categorical Data Under a Discretization of a Normal Variant.

The multiple-group categorical factor analysis (FA) model and the graded response model (GRM) are commonly used to examine polytomous items for differential item functioning to detect possible measurement bias in educational testing. In this study, the multiple-group categorical factor analysis model (MC-FA) and multiple-group normal-ogive GRM models are unified under the common framework of discretization of a normal variant. We rigorously justify a set of identified parameters and determine possible identifiability constraints necessary to make the parameters just-identified and estimable in the common framework of MC-FA.

A speeded item response model: leave the harder till later.

A speeded item response model is proposed. We consider the situation where examinees may retain the harder items to a later test period in a time limit test. With such a strategy, examinees may not finish answering some of the harder items within the allocated time.

Structural equation modeling of approval voting data.

The method of approval voting is a commonly used voting procedure in which each judge selects a subset of the alternatives. By postulating that the random utilities associated with the choice options in approval voting elections follow a multivariate normal distribution under the Thurstonian framework, Regenwetter, Ho, and Tsetlin (2007) attempted to integrate the normative theories and individual variabilities in modeling social behavior. However, their approach is limited to only three alternatives, due to computational intractability as the number of alternatives increases.

Evaluating the uses of the total score and the domain scores in the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument, Chinese version (CASI C-2.0): results of confirmatory factor analysis.

Background: The Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI) consists of items which are designed to measure the nine domains of cognitive ability. Its total score is used clinically to represent the overall underlying cognitive ability of the patient. This study aimed to evaluate the justification of the uses of the all-domain-total-score as an overall cognitive measure and the domain scores as measures of designated individual cognitive ability.

Improving the screening power of the cognitive abilities screening instrument, Chinese version.

The purpose of this study was to find means to increase the power of the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument, Chinese version (CASI C-2.0) in the screening of dementia. In assessing the performance of the CASI in dementia screening, it is a common practice to determine a cutoff score for the total CASI score and report the respective sensitivity and specificity.