Choice of Test Model for Appropriateness Measurement

Abstract

Several theoretical and empirical issues that must be addressed before appropriateness measurement can be used by practitioners are investigated in this paper. These issues include selection of a latent trait model for multiple-choice tests, selection of a particular appropriateness index, and the sample size required for parameter estimation. The three-parameter logistic model is found to provide better detection of simulated spuriously low examinees than the Rasch model for the Graduate Record Examination, Verbal Section. All three appropriateness indices proposed by Levine and Rubin (1979) provide good detection of simulated spuriously low examinees but poor detection of simulated spuriously high examinees. A reason for this discrepancy is provided.