Rasch Analysis               

Rasch analysis is a psychometric technique which places the proficiency level of test takers, and the relative difficulty of items on a common scale. Rasch software (such as Winsteps) is used to calibrate the data and produces statistical measures for items and test takers. This analysis provides statistical data on the relative difficulty and consistency of the items, and the relative performance of test takers. Rasch analysis is suitable for pre- and post-testing of items in receptive skills tests.

What knowledge and/or skills will I gain from this course?

The ALTE Rasch Analysis course provides an overview of the basics of Rasch analysis. The course assumes only limited awareness of the type and content of files used for input and the type of output produced by Rasch Analysis and Rasch Measurement software. The focus of the course is practical rather than theoretical. It covers the cycle of preparing data for analysis and understanding input and output. Working with Rasch data often involves manipulating data in Excel. Participants who are not as confident of their abilities in Excel are encouraged to enrol, as help and guidance will be provided.

Who is this course suitable for?

It is suitable for people who have a good statistical background, but limited experience with Rasch analysis, or vice versa, and those who are at a ‘false beginner’ stage in both Rasch analysis and statistics.

How is this course delivered?

This practical course is delivered face-to-face. It consists of two 90-minute sessions, and a 30-minute break.

Participants are advised to bring their own laptop to the workshop. Where possible, participants are encouraged to have either Winsteps or Ministeps (analysis freeware) available on their laptops. In cases where this is not possible, participants will be encouraged to work together.

Who is the course tutor?

The course will be presented by Jane Lloyd (Cambridge University Press and Assessment). Jane is Senior Research Manager at Cambridge English. Her main responsibilities are leading on standard setting for Cambridge exams, working on large-scale educational reform projects with ministries and NGOs, and working for ALTE. Her work for ALTE is to support other national language test providers. This includes: statistical analysis of items, analysis of rater performance, research into exam and language use at regional and national level, courses and training in assessment, preparation for audits, and training for item writers, test designers and raters. She has a degree in Linguistics, a DELTA, an MA in Linguistics and TESOL, and an MA in Language Testing. She is currently studying for a PhD in Language Testing at CRELLA. 

When is the next course?

The next ALTE Rasch Analysis course will be on Tuesday 9 April 2024 in Bad Homburg, Germany.

Can several people from the same organisation join this course?

For group bookings, ALTE advises to book a maximum of three places per organisation.

How can I register?

To register for this course, click here.

How can I pay?

Full payment is required on registration. We strongly recommend that payment is made online using a Visa, MasterCard or American Express. However, if it is not possible to pay with a credit/debit card when registering, please contact the ALTE Services Unit (servicesunit@alte.org) to request an invoice with bank transfer payment instructions.