Rasch Models for Solving Measurement Problems
Invariant Measurement in the Social Sciences
- George Engelhard, Jr. - University of Georgia, USA
- Jue Wang - University of Miami, USA
This book introduces current perspectives on Rasch measurement theory with an emphasis on developing Rasch-based scales. Rasch measurement theory represents a paradigm shift in measurement theory away from classical test theory and creates a framework for scaling that can yield invariant measurement. Rasch Models for Solving Measurement Problems: Invariant Measurement in the Social Sciences is a broadly accessible text. Authors George Engelhard Jr and Jue Wang introduce Rasch measurement theory step by step, with chapters on scale construction, evaluation, maintenance, and use. Points are illustrated and techniques are demonstrated through an extended example: The Food Insecurity Experience (FIE) Scale. The Rasch analyses in the book are run using the Facets computer program. Facets syntax, and R code for the ERMA program created by the authors to obtain parameter estimates and to examine model-data fit, together with sample data sets are all available on a website for the book.
Supplements
Syntax for the Facets computer program used in this book, and R code for the ERMA program created by the authors to obtain parameter estimates and to examine model-data fit, together with sample data sets are all available on this website.
I am impressed that the authors cover so many Rasch measurement topics perfectly in this small book. Specifically, various Rasch-related measurement theories and fundamental knowledge with illustrative analyses in each chapter make this book an extremely useful reference for Rasch researchers and practitioners. Tables and Figures the authors created in this book are extremely helpful to better understand the contents. I will definitely adopt this book as a required reading in my Rasch models course and recommend it to my graduate students and colleagues who are interested in applying Rasch models.
This book provides an excellent overview of the theory and special procedures that are available for Rasch model applications.
This book provides a concise and yet clear treatment of using Rasch measurement theory in developing and maintaining a scale in the social sciences. The use of a construct map makes for an intuitive understanding of key concepts and procedures such as scale development and measurement invariance.
This book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand how Rasch measurement is much more than a set of statistical models. It is a measurement theory that can help practitioners to achieve their core goals in developing and using scales, and this book details the topics that support such uses of the theory.
Sage College Publishing
