Rasch Analysis in the Human Sciences

Rasch Analysis in the Human Sciences helps individuals, both students and teachers, master the key concepts and resources needed to use Rasch techniques for analyzing data from assessments to measure variables such as abilities, attitudes, and personality traits. Upon completion of the text, readers will be able to confidently evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of existing instrumentation, compute linear person measures and item measures, interpret Wright Maps, utilize Rasch software, and understand what it means to measure in the Human Sciences. Each of the 24 chapters presents a key concept using a mix of theory and application of user-friendly Rasch software. Chapters also include a beginning and ending dialogue between two typical researchers learning Rasch, formative assessment check points, sample data fi les, an extensive set of application activities with answers, a one paragraph sample research article text integrating the chapter topic, quick-tips, and suggested readings. Rasch Analysis in the Human Sciences will be an essential resource for anyone wishing to begin or expand their learning of Rasch measurement techniques, be it in the Health Sciences, Market Research, Education, or Cognitive Sciences. Rasch Analysis in the Human Sciences represents a much needed, practical, and approachable guide to the use of Rasch methods and models within the field of education in general and in STEM fields most particularly. With a future ever more guided by data-driven decision-making, it is essential that our educators become more familiar with fundamental measurement concepts. Dr. Boone's new text provides readers with a powerful set of new skills, set within an accessible, easy to read framework.Gregory Ethan Stone, Professor of Educational Foundations and Leadership, Universityof Toledo, Ohio, USA Bill Boone's book leads educators as well as doctoral students to using Rasch as a model for measurement and profound interpretation of data and provides a profound and understandable introduction into a difficult topic.Hans E. Fischer, Professor of Physics Education, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany This book will be invaluable to those in the social sciences who want to improve the quality of our science through improved measurement.Cynthia W. Kelly, Professor of Nursing, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA