Iranian Journal of Psycho-educational Assessment

Iranian Journal of Psycho-educational Assessment

Cognitive diagnostic computerized adaptive testing (CD-CAT): Conceptual framework and steps for test development and validation

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD Candidate in Department of Educational Measurement and Assessment, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Educational Measurement and Assessment, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
3 Professor, Department of Educational Measurement and Assessment,, Faculty of Psychology and Education, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
4 Department of Computer Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
5 Professor, of Department of Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The present study explores the process of test construction using the Cognitive Diagnostic Computerized Adaptive Testing (CD-CAT) approach, a novel method in educational assessment. This approach integrates methods from Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) and Cognitive Diagnostic Models (CDMs) to identify individuals' abilities and weaknesses with greater accuracy and in a more personalized manner. Initially, the theoretical foundations and key concepts related to CD-CAT are discussed. CD-CAT can provide a more precise assessment of candidates' abilities and skills. Instead of offering a general score, this approach provides a deeper understanding of a student’s academic status and strengths by analyzing specific skill strengths and weaknesses. The article details the various stages of CD-CAT test construction, including item bank design, item selection algorithms, and test termination rules. Furthermore,the advantages of this approach over traditional tests, such as increased accuracy and reliability of assessments and improved efficiency of educational processes, are discussed. Research indicates that CD-CAT can optimize the evaluation process by selecting items tailored to the candidate's ability level based on their previous responses. The findings also suggest that CD-CAT can significantly enhance the quality of assessments and the accuracy of diagnoses. Finally, suggestions for future research in the development and improvement of CD-CAT and its practical applications in various educational and assessment fields are provided.
Keywords

  • Receive Date 18 June 2025
  • Revise Date 30 June 2025
  • Accept Date 09 July 2025