Description
The course provides an overview of psychometrics and in particular of test theory. Test theory is presented from the perspective of both classical test theory and item-response theory including an exposition of reliability and validity in all their facets as well as their respective implications for the research practice. Multivariate analysis techniques commonly used in evaluating and analyzing tests, such as principal component analysis, and item-response theory will be presented at a conceptual level.
Course objectives
After successfully completing the course, the course the student should be able to:
discuss in depth the concepts that are central to classical test theory, item response theory, and scale construction as well as their relations to each other
Explain, and illustrate with numeric examples, how reliability and validity may affect research results
develop and evaluate a measurement scale /instrument in (part of) a Research & Design cycle, to assess a psychological construct
perform psychometric analyses such as principal component analysis and item response modelling
present and defend research in public
Timetable
For the timetable of this course please refer to MyTimetable
Mode of instruction
Six lectures
Five computer lab sessions, participation is mandatory.
Group assignment
Assessment method
The final grade will be based on a written exam (60%) and an oral presentation in class of a (group) assignment (40%). Both the written exam and the oral presentation of the group assignment (individually graded) must each be 5.5 or higher. In the case that the group assignment is deemed insufficient, the students are given the opportunity to complete the assignment to a satisfactory level within a time frame set by the instructors in a written essay.. Partial (pass) grades cannot be carried over into the next academic year.
The workgroups have required attendance. One meeting can be skipped. Absence should be mentioned in advance via email to the teacher. The student will be asked to complete an alternative assignment. If more than one meeting is missed, the learning goals of this course cannot be achieved. This implies that the course cannot be completed with a passing grade in the current academic year. The student will need to retake the course in the next academic year.
Brightspace
During this course Brightspace is used.
Reading list
- Furr, R.M. (2021). Psychometrics. An introduction (4th ed.). Los Angeles, etc: Sage Publications, Inc.
Registration
Education
Students must register themselves for all course components (lectures, tutorials and practicals) they wish to follow. You can register via My Studymap up to 5 days prior to the start of the course.
Exams
It is mandatory for all students to register for each exam and to confirm registration for each exam and to confirm registration in My Studymap. This is possible up to and including 10 calendar days prior to the examination. You cannot take an exam without a valid pre-registration and confirmation in My Studymap.
Carefully read all information about the procedures and deadlines for registering for courses and exams.
Contact information
The course manager is K. van Lieshout.