Cognitive Assessment: An Introduction to the Rule Space Method

This book introduces a new methodology for the analysis of test results: free from ambiguous interpretations, they truly demonstrate an individual's state of knowledge. The methodology is ideal for highlighting ability patterns for individuals derived from test scores used in evaluating student progress. Dr. Tatsuoka introduces readers to the Rule Space Method (RSM) a technique that transforms unobservable knowledge and skill variables into observable and measurable attributes. RSM converts item response patterns into attribute mastery probabilities. Used for PSAT scoring reports, RSM helps teachers understand what scores mean by helping them ascertain an individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses.For example, two students may have the exact same score, but for different reasons. For example, one student might excel at processing grammatically complex texts but miss the main idea of the prose, while another excels at understanding the global message. Such knowledge helps teachers customize a student's education to his or her cognitive abilities. The book opens with an overview of cognitive assessment research and nonparametric and parametric person-fit statistics. "The Q-matrix Theory" is then introduced followed by the Rule Space method.Various properties of attribute mastery probabilities are then introduced along with the reliability theory of attributes and its connection to classical and item response theory. The book concludes with a discussion of how the construct validity of a test can be clarified with the Rule Space method. Intended for researchers and graduate students in quantitative, educational, and cognitive psychology, this book also appeals to those in computer science and mathematics. The book is appropriate for advanced courses on cognometrics, latent class structures, and advanced psychometrics as well as statistical pattern recognition and classification courses taught in statistics and/or math departments.