Bayesian Item Response Modeling

Covering software implementations in S-plus and R, this volume serves as both a handbook for measurement specialists, as well as a textbook for students of the Bayesian approach to modern test theory. Software implementations are made available online for further instruction.

The modeling of item response data is governed by item response theory, also referred to as modern test theory. The eld of inquiry of item response theory has become very large and shows the enormous progress that has been made. The mainstream literature is focused on frequentist statistical methods for - timating model parameters and evaluating model t. However, the Bayesian methodology has shown great potential, particularly for making further - provements in the statistical modeling process. The Bayesian approach has two important features that make it attractive for modeling item response data. First, it enables the possibility of incorpor- ing nondata information beyond the observed responses into the analysis. The Bayesian methodology is also very clear about how additional information can be used. Second, the Bayesian approach comes with powerful simulation-based estimation methods. These methods make it possible to handle all kinds of priors and data-generating models. One of my motives for writing this book is to give an introduction to the Bayesian methodology for modeling and analyzing item response data. A Bayesian counterpart is presented to the many popular item response theory books (e.g., Baker and Kim 2004; De Boeck and Wilson, 2004; Hambleton and Swaminathan, 1985; van der Linden and Hambleton, 1997) that are mainly or completely focused on frequentist methods. The usefulness of the Bayesian methodology is illustrated by discussing and applying a range of Bayesian item response models.

Introduces Bayesian item response modeling with examples in a wide array of contexts Gives a unified treatment of extending traditional item response models to handle more complex assessment data Computer code and examples facilitate the Bayesian approach to item response modeling Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Autorentext
Jean-Paul Fox is Associate Professor of Measurement and Data Analysis, University of Twente, The Netherlands. His main research activities are in several areas of Bayesian response modeling. Dr. Fox has published numerous articles in the areas of Bayesian item response analysis, statistical methods for analyzing multivariate categorical response data, and nonlinear mixed effects models.

Klappentext
This book presents a thorough treatment and unified coverage of Bayesian item response modeling with applications in a variety of disciplines, including education, medicine, psychology, and sociology. Breakthroughs in computing technology have made the Bayesian approach particularly useful for many response modeling problems. Free from computational constraints, realistic and state-of-the-art latent variable response models are considered for complex assessment and survey data to solve real-world problems. The Bayesian framework described provides a unified approach for modeling and inference, dealing with (nondata) prior information and information across multiple data sources. The book discusses methods for analyzing item response data and the complex relationships commonly associated with human response behavior and features • Self-contained introduction to Bayesian item response modeling and a coverage of extending standard models to handle complex assessment data • A thorough overview of Bayesian estimation and testing methods for item response models, where MCMC methods are emphasized • Numerous examples that cover a wide range of application areas, including education, medicine, psychology, and sociology • Datasets and software (S+, R, and WinBUGS code) of the models and methods presented in the book are available on www.jean-paulfox.com Bayesian Item Response Modeling is an excellent book for research professionals, including applied statisticians, psychometricians, and social scientists who analyze item response data from a Bayesian perspective. It is a guide to the growing area of Bayesian response modeling for researchers and graduate students, and will also serve them as a good reference. Jean-Paul Fox is Associate Professor of Measurement and Data Analysis, University of Twente, The Netherlands. His main research activities are in several areas of Bayesian response modeling. Dr. Fox has published numerous articles in the areas of Bayesian item response analysis, statistical methods for analyzing multivariate categorical response data, and nonlinear mixed effects models.

Inhalt
to Bayesian Response Modeling.- Bayesian Hierarchical Response Modeling.- Basic Elements of Bayesian Statistics.- Estimation of Bayesian Item Response Models.- Assessment of Bayesian Item Response Models.- Multilevel Item Response Theory Models.- Random Item Effects Models.- Response Time Item Response Models.- Randomized Item Response Models.