Analysis of test results via log-linear models

Abstract

The recently developed log-linear model procedures are applied to three types of data arising in a measurement context. First, because of the historical intersection of survey methods and test norming, the log-linear model approach should have direct utility in the analysis of norm-referenced test results. Several different schemes for analyzing the homogeneity of test score distributions are presented that provide a finer analysis of such data than was previously available. Second,the analysis of a contingency table resulting from the cross-classification of students on the basis of criterion-referenced test results and instructionally related variables is presented. Third, the intersection of log-linear models and item parameter estimation procedures under latent trait theory are shown. The illustrative examples in each of these areas suggest that log-linear models can be a versatile and useful data analysis technique in a measurement context.