COMPUTERIZED ADAPTIVE TESTING METHOD

Dr. Fatih Kezer
Kocaeli University

Abstract

Measurement and evaluation process has a critical role in revealing whether aims of education are achieved or not. Mostly, traditional paper and pencil tests basing on Classical Test Theory are used for measurement and evaluation, especially in Turkey. In Classical Test Theory, since item and ability parameters estimated from the tests are also dependent to the target group, it causes limitation on reliability and validity of tests related to the target group. In order to get over this limitation, models which base on Item Response Theory; make item and ability parameters be independentfrom the group invariance property and provide points got from the tests to become more comparable become more widespread all over the world. With the rapid development of information and technology, especially in some countries like United States of America, Netherlands and Far East Countries, usage of these tests basing on Item Response Theory increased rapidly. More particularly, increase in usage of these models at large scale tests is observed. When looked at the changes in measurement approaches in the world, it is seen that in addition to keeping up with developing measurement and evaluation theories, they also keep up with developing technology. Therefore, Computerized Adaptive Testing which is a kind of application of Item Response Theory used all over the world can be a very good example for this. With the help of this test method, it can be possible to develop shorter, more reliable and valid tests that are also appropriate for individuals’ ability levels. In the light of technological developments, it is expected that large scale tests in Turkey will be reviewed and usage of adaptive tests that are valid and reliable according to Item Response Theory; appropriate for individuals’ ability levels; composed of few items will become widespread. For this reason, this study aims to reveal different aspects of this kind of tests in order to better understand Computerized Adaptive Testing.

Keywords

Item response theory, Computerized adaptive test, Testing

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