Educational Measurement ─ From Foundations to Future

This book introduces and explores major topics in contemporary educational measurement: criterion-referenced testing, item response theory (IRT), computer-based testing, cross-lingual and cross-cultural assessment, and accountability testing. Psychometric experts describe forward-looking measurement practices and provide a contextualized understanding of how and why they were developed, how they can be used, and where they may go in the future. In addition to presenting key concepts and formulas, the volume covers established and emerging applications and discusses recurrent challenges that require additional research. A helpful glossary of abbreviations is included. The book is grounded in the work of Ronald K. Hambleton.

Craig S. Wells, PhD, is Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Policy, Research, and Administration and Associate Director of the Center for Educational Assessment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dr. Wells teaches courses in statistical and psychometric methods. His research interests pertain to the application of item response theory models specifically for examining the effects and detection of item parameter drift, differential item functioning, and model misfit. He also has a keen interest in the philosophy of science and its applications to behavioral and social science research.

Molly Faulkner-Bond is a Graduate Research Fellow at Educational Testing Service’s English language learning and assessment center, and a doctoral candidate in Research, Educational Measurement, and Psychometrics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has published in prominent national and international journals such as the Review of Research in Education, the International Journal of Testing, andPsicothema. Her research focuses on on validity issues and evaluation in large-scale K-12 testing systems, with a particular focus on policies and assessments for English learners.