An Intersectional Approach to Differential Item Functioning

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session One
  In Roundtable Session: Differential Item Functioning (Table 1)

Abstract

Differential Item Functioning (DIF) is employed to examine potential item bias. Traditionally, DIF is examined separately for demographic characteristics such as gender, racialized identity, and economic status. Recently, intersectionality theory was applied to inform the design of DIF analysis. In the intersectional approach, group membership is defined through the intersection of identity, with White-Male-High-SES test-takers forming the reference group, and the remaining intersectional groups forming focal groups. The intersectional approach yielded a notable increase in the flagging of items for DIF. These findings sparked questions about why the intersectional approach captures DIF that is not detected through the traditional approach. This paper presents findings from a simulation study designed to deepen understanding of this phenomenon

Authors

• Mike K. Russell, Boston College
  Presenting Author

• Erin Winters, University of California - Davis
  Presenting Author