Title
DIF assessment for polytomously scored items: A framework for classification and evaluation
Abstract
Increased use of alternatives to the traditional dichotomously
scored multiple-choice item yield complex
responses that require complex scoring rules.
Some of these new item types can be polytomously
scored. DIF methodology is well-defined for traditional
dichotomously scored multiple-choice items.
This paper provides a classification scheme of DIF
procedures for dichotomously scored items that is
applicable to new DIF procedures for polytomously
scored items. In the process, a formal development of
a polytomous version of a dichotomous DIF technique
is presented. Several polytomous DIF techniques are
evaluated in terms of statistical and practical
criteria. Index terms: DIF methodology, differential
item functioning, item bias, polytomous scoring, statistical
criteria for differential item functioning.
Identifiers
other: doi:10.1177/014662169501900104
Previously Published Citation
Potenza, Maria T & Dorans, Neil J. (1995). DIF assessment for polytomously scored items: A framework for classification and evaluation. Applied Psychological Measurement, 19, 23-37. doi:10.1177/014662169501900104
Suggested Citation
Potenza, Maria T.; Dorans, Neil J..
(1995).
DIF assessment for polytomously scored items: A framework for classification and evaluation.
Retrieved from the University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy,
https://hdl.handle.net/11299/117417.