Assessing Adults’ Problem-Solving Skills in Technology-Rich Environments: A Cognitive Diagnosis Approach With Latent Regressions   (Poster 8)

• In Event: Excellence in Education Research: Early Career Scholars and Their Work

Abstract

In today's swiftly changing digital landscape, the significance of adults' problem-solving abilities within technological contexts cannot be overstated. This study employs cognitive diagnostic models to thoroughly examine and assess adults' proficiency in problem-solving within technology-driven environments, utilizing data from the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) survey. Furthermore, this research employs a corrected three-step latent regression model to uncover the relationship between skill mastery and various sociodemographic, academic, and work-related factors among adults. The findings reveal compelling associations between several sociodemographic, academic, and professional aspects and the mastery of problem-solving skills within technology-oriented settings. These outcomes hold substantial importance for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, and shed light on potential skill variations among diverse demographic groups throughout the United States in the realm of technology-driven problem-solving.

Authors

• Wenchao Ma, University of Minnesota

• Mehdi Rajeb, University of Alabama

• Qiwei He, Georgetown University

• Qingzhou Shi, Northwestern University