When a test is adapted from a source language (SL) into a target language (TL), the two forms are usually not psychometrically equivalent. If linking between test forms is necessary, those items that have had their psychometric characteristics altered by the translation (differential item functioning [DIF] items) should be eliminated from the…

Differential item functioning (DIF) analysis can be used to great advantage in second language (L2) assessments. This study examined the differences in performance on L2 test items between groups from different first language backgrounds and suggested ways of improving L2 assessments. The study examined DIF on L2 (Hebrew) test items for two…

Studied whether differential item functioning (DIF) in translated verbal items could be reduced or eliminated by revising these items. Results for six sections of an Israeli college admission test translated from Hebrew to Russian show that revisions can reduce DIF considerably. Discusses costs of the revision process. (SLD)

Focused on whether differential item functioning (DIF) is related to item type in translated test items and the causes of DIF using data from an Israeli college entrance test in Hebrew and a Russian translation. Results from 24,304 college applicants indicate that 34% of items functioned differently across items. (SLD)

When a test is translated from a source language to a target language, the result is generally not two psychometrically equivalent tests. If the sources of differential item functioning (DIF) across languages could be predicted, this could have important implications for test adaptations. This study examined item revision as a tool for improving…