Are simple gain scores obsolete?

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Are simple gain scores obsolete?

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1996

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It is widely believed that measures of gain, growth, or change, expressed as simple differences between pretest and posttest scores, are inherently unreliable. It is also believed that gain scores lack predictive validity with respect to other criteria. However, these conclusions are based on misleading assumptions about the values of parameters in familiar equations in classical test theory. The present paper examines modified equations for the validity and reliability of difference scores that describe applied testing situations more realistically and reveal that simple gain scores can be more useful in research than commonly believed. Index terms: change scores, difference scores, gain scores, measurement of growth, reliability, test theory, validity.

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Williams, Richard H & Zimmerman, Donald W. (1996). Are simple gain scores obsolete? Applied Psychological Measurement, 20, 59-69. doi:10.1177/014662169602000106

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Williams, Richard H.; Zimmerman, Donald W.. (1996). Are simple gain scores obsolete?. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, https://hdl.handle.net/11299/119063.

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