Showing 1 - 2 of 2 Research Library Publications

Differential Item Functioning Analysis of United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 Items

Posted: | Jonathan D. Rubright, Michael Jodoin, Stephanie Woodward, Michael A. Barone

Academic Medicine: Volume 97 - Issue 5 - Pages 718-722

 

The purpose of this 2019–2020 study was to statistically identify and qualitatively review USMLE Step 1 exam questions (items) using differential item functioning (DIF) methodology.

Category:Product-Oriented Research, USMLE, Assessment-Oriented Research, Links to Outcomes

The Optimal Number of Options for Multiple-Choice Questions on High-Stakes Tests: Application of a Revised Index for Detecting Nonfunctional Distractors

Posted: | M.R. Raymond, C. Stevens, S.D. Bucak

Adv in Health Sci Educ 24, 141–150 (2019)

 

Research suggests that the three-option format is optimal for multiple choice questions (MCQs). This conclusion is supported by numerous studies showing that most distractors (i.e., incorrect answers) are selected by so few examinees that they are essentially nonfunctional. However, nearly all studies have defined a distractor as nonfunctional if it is selected by fewer than 5% of examinees.

Category:Assessment-Oriented Research, General Measurement