The book "Applying the Rasch Model: Fundamental Measurement in the Human Sciences" by Trevor G. Bond and Christine M. Fox, published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates in 2007, is a comprehensive guide to the Rasch model, a statistical method for measurement and scaling. The authors aim to provide a clear and accessible introduction to the Rasch model, which is often perceived as complex and technical. The book is designed for graduate students and researchers in education, psychology, and other human sciences who are interested in using the Rasch model but may lack a strong background in statistics.
The first edition of the book was well-received, becoming a bestseller and addressing the need for a practical guide to the Rasch model. The second edition has been revised to enhance conceptual clarity and accuracy, while maintaining the practical focus. Key topics covered include the fundamental principles of measurement, the basic principles of the Rasch model, building a set of items for measurement, invariance, and the application of the Rasch model across various human sciences.
The authors emphasize the importance of rigorous measurement in advancing scientific understanding, drawing parallels between the physical sciences and the social sciences. They argue that the Rasch model provides a robust framework for ensuring that measures are consistent and reliable, which is crucial for building strong theories. The book includes practical examples, step-by-step guides, and software tools to help readers apply the Rasch model effectively.
The preface highlights the authors' personal journey into Rasch analysis and their gratitude to colleagues and students who have contributed to the book's development. The book is intended to serve as a foundational resource for researchers and practitioners, helping them to understand and apply the Rasch model in their work.The book "Applying the Rasch Model: Fundamental Measurement in the Human Sciences" by Trevor G. Bond and Christine M. Fox, published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates in 2007, is a comprehensive guide to the Rasch model, a statistical method for measurement and scaling. The authors aim to provide a clear and accessible introduction to the Rasch model, which is often perceived as complex and technical. The book is designed for graduate students and researchers in education, psychology, and other human sciences who are interested in using the Rasch model but may lack a strong background in statistics.
The first edition of the book was well-received, becoming a bestseller and addressing the need for a practical guide to the Rasch model. The second edition has been revised to enhance conceptual clarity and accuracy, while maintaining the practical focus. Key topics covered include the fundamental principles of measurement, the basic principles of the Rasch model, building a set of items for measurement, invariance, and the application of the Rasch model across various human sciences.
The authors emphasize the importance of rigorous measurement in advancing scientific understanding, drawing parallels between the physical sciences and the social sciences. They argue that the Rasch model provides a robust framework for ensuring that measures are consistent and reliable, which is crucial for building strong theories. The book includes practical examples, step-by-step guides, and software tools to help readers apply the Rasch model effectively.
The preface highlights the authors' personal journey into Rasch analysis and their gratitude to colleagues and students who have contributed to the book's development. The book is intended to serve as a foundational resource for researchers and practitioners, helping them to understand and apply the Rasch model in their work.