Computerized Adaptive Tests

A traditional computerized adaptive test (CAT) selects items individually for each examinee based on the examinee’s responses to previous items in order to obtain a precise and accurate estimate of that examinee’s latent ability on some underlying scale. The specific items, the number of items, and the order of item presentation are all likely to vary from one examinee to another. Forms are drawn adaptively and scored in real time, and unique tests are constructed for each examinee. Scores are equated through reliance on item response theory (IRT)1 ability estimates.