An important parameter in item response theory is the slope of the curve, which is an indicator of how well the item discriminates. If there is a ________ slope then the item is probably a good discriminator ,whereas a ________ slope probably indicates the item does not discriminate very well.
A)flat; steep
B)symmetrical; asymmetrical
C)steep; flat
D)asymmetrical; symmetrical

Question

An important parameter in item response theory is the slope of the curve, which is an indicator of how well the item discriminates.  If there is a ________  slope then the item is probably a good discriminator ,whereas a ________ slope probably indicates the item does not discriminate very well.
A)flat; steep
B)symmetrical; asymmetrical
C)steep; flat
D)asymmetrical; symmetrical

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A steep slope in item response theory indicates that the item is a good discriminator because it means that small changes in the trait being measured result in large changes in the probability of a correct response. Conversely, a flat slope indicates poor discrimination, as changes in the trait level do not significantly affect the probability of a correct response.

An Important Parameter in Item Response Theory Is the Slope