Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have developed competence in item writing, editing, scoring data analysis and implementation for Thurstone, Likert and semantic differential scales; the understanding of key psychometric concepts, eg reliability, validity, item discrimination, internal consistency and unidimensionality; the ability to read and critically evaluate research literature relating to attitude measurement.
Synopsis This subject provides a basic education in the principles of psychometrics. It is intended for students interested in the application of measurement techniques to the affective domain; students interested in quantitative approaches to curriculum evaluation or research on teaching and learning may find the subject useful. It is also suitable for people working in hospitals, community health centres or other organisations in which the evaluation of clients' feelings is important. Some previous background in educational measurement would be an advantage. Students will gain experience in the use of various forms of attitude scale, discuss statistical and methodological issues in the conduct of attitude research, and conduct a critical review of research in which attitude measurements have been employed. Students interested in conducting their project in a topic related to this field should consult the lecturer early in their candidature to discuss other subjects they might take.
Assessment Five homework exercises: 5% each + Three assignments: 25% each