LatentD-Scoring Modeling: Estimation of Item and Person Parameters

This study presents a latent (item response theory-like) framework of a recently developed classical approach to test scoring, equating, and item analysis, referred to asD-scoring method. Specifically, (a) person and item parameters are estimated under an item response function model on theD-scale (from 0 to 1) using marginal maximum-likelihood estimation and (b) analytic expressions are provided for item information function, test information function, and standard error of estimation forD-scores obtained under the proposed latent treatment of theD-scoring method. The results from a simulation study reveal very good recovery of item and person parameters via the marginal maximum-likelihood estimation method. Discussion and recommendations for practice are provided.