ERIC Number: EJ1393256
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-2148-7456
A Comparison of the Efficacies of Differential Item Functioning Detection Methods
International Journal of Assessment Tools in Education, v10 n1 p145-159 2023
To ensure the validity of the tests is to check that all items have similar results across different groups of individuals. However, differential item functioning (DIF) occurs when the results of individuals with equal ability levels from different groups differ from each other on the same test item. Based on Item Response Theory and Classic Test Theory, there are some methods, with different advantages and limitations to identify items that show DIF. This study aims to compare the performances of five methods for detecting DIF. The efficacies of Mantel-Haenszel (MH), Logistic Regression (LR), Crossing simultaneous item bias test (CSIBTEST), Lord's chi-square (LORD), and Raju's area measure (RAJU) methods are examined considering conditions of the sample size, DIF ratio, and test length. In this study, to compare the detection methods, power and Type I error rates are evaluated using a simulation study with 100 replications conducted for each condition. Results show that LR and MH have the lowest Type I error and the highest power rate in detecting uniform DIF. In addition, CSIBTEST has a similar power rate to MH and LR. Under DIF conditions, sample size, DIF ratio, test length and their interactions affect Type I error and power rates.
Descriptors: Test Bias, Test Items, Test Validity, Item Response Theory, Test Theory, Test Length, Sample Size, Monte Carlo Methods, Error Patterns
International Journal of Assessment Tools in Education. Pamukkale University, Faculty of Education, Kinikli Campus, Denizli 20070, Turkey. e-mail: ijate.editor@gmail.com; Web site: https://ijate.net/index.php/ijate
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A