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A self-reference problem in test score normalization

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  • Penney, Jeffrey

Abstract

It is considered standard practice to transform IRT-scaled test scores into standard normal variables for regression analysis in order to enable comparison with other research whose test scores are similarly transformed. This paper calls this practice into question. I show that these transformations can potentially result in radically different estimates of regression parameters due to differences in sample composition. Regression coefficient comparisons between different samples that use z-standardized test scores is only possible if the samples are considered to be random draws from the same population. I outline several different methods to deal with this problem and the caveats attached to each.

Suggested Citation

  • Penney, Jeffrey, 2017. "A self-reference problem in test score normalization," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 61(C), pages 79-84.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecoedu:v:61:y:2017:i:c:p:79-84
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econedurev.2017.10.003
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    Cited by:

    1. Mookerjee, Sulagna & Slichter, David, 2023. "Test scores, schools, and the geography of economic opportunity," Journal of Urban Economics, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).

    More about this item

    Keywords

    Black-White test score gap; Item response theory; Normalization; Standardization; Test scores;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C18 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Methodolical Issues: General
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education

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