Validation of the Self-Determination, Purpose, Identity, and Engagement in Science Survey Using Rasch Modeling (Poster 31)

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Applications of the Rasch Model

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to perform a cross-validation of an existing measure, the Self-determination, Purpose, Identity, and Engagement in Science (SPIRES) survey. We took a Rasch modeling approach instead of factor analysis because, unlike factor analysis, Rasch modeling is sample-independent. The original validation of the SPIRES suggested the survey is composed of three constructs, while our results suggest there are four constructs. Since our Rasch analyses were sample-independent, we conclude that the SPIRES survey is a four construct survey and may be treated as such across contexts without further need to validate using factor analysis, which could continuously produce inconsistent results. These results demonstrate an advantage to using a Rasch modeling approach over factor analysis for instrument validation.

Authors

• Hannah Huvard, New Mexico State University

• Courtney Donovan, University of Colorado - Denver

• Robert M. Talbot, University of Colorado - Denver