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Computerized Adaptive Test Differential Item Functioning (CAT-DIF)

CAT-DIF identifies items in a computerized adaptive test that behave differently across demographic or group subpopulations after controlling for overall ability. Because adaptive algorithms select items non-randomly based on each examinee's estimated proficiency, standard DIF detection methods require adjustment before they can be validly applied in this context.

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Sources

  1. Zwick, R., Thayer, D. T., & Mazzeo, J. (1997). Describing and categorizing DIF in polytomous items. Journal of Educational Measurement, 34(4), 261–285. DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-3984.1997.tb00519.x
  2. Wainer, H. (Ed.). (2000). Computerized Adaptive Testing: A Primer (2nd ed.). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. ISBN: 978-0805835113

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Referenced by

ScholarGateCAT-DIF (Computerized Adaptive Test Differential Item Functioning). Retrieved 2026-06-04 from https://scholargate.app/en/psychometrics/computerized-adaptive-test-differential-item-functioning