Latent Class Representation of Systematic Patterns in Test Responses.
Abstract
This paper is concerned with the use of latent class structure as a modelling framework for tests in which much of the data conforms to a relatively small number of systematic patterns. Application of this framework to the analysis of tests has been limited becaused available parameter estimation algorithms can only handle a relatively small number of items. The paper proposes a modification of the constrained maximum likeihood estimation algorithm of Goodman (1974) which should extend the applicability of that algorithm to tests with many more items. A number of special cases of the latent class structure model are reviewed, including models which we propose for signed-number addition test responses. A series of problems which arise in the development of any latent class model are discussed and likelihood ratio tests for dealing with the problems are presented. Keywords: Parameter invariance; Componential analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA178198
Entities
People
- James A. Paulson
Organizations
- Portland State University