PSYCH 638BMeasurement and Test Theory

This course covers measurement theory, test construction, the psychometric evaluation of tests, and principles of score interpretation. The course fills two needs: (1) for future practitioners it provides a background in psychometric methods essential for the appropriate use of psychological tests and measures in clinical settings; and (2) for researchers it develops the theme that research design and data analysis should take explicit account of measurement issues. Students gain experience with a variety of statistical methods, including the calculation of appropriate reliability coefficients, methods of item analysis, use of Bayes' Theorem, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. Only students in the Clinical Psychology program are permitted to take this course.