A Two-Parameter Logistic Extension Model: An Efficient Variant of the Three-Parameter Logistic Model.

Abstract

A three-parameter logistic (3PL) model variant, named the two-parameter logistic extension (2PLE) model, was developed. This new model employs a function that integrates item features according to an examinee's ability level instead of a fixed guessing parameter used in the 3PL model to quantify guessing behavior. Correct response probabilities from a solution behavior and guessing behavior increase as the level of ability increases. At extreme cases in which the level of ability is close to negative infinity, the 2PLE model degenerates into a 3PL model with a guessing probability at chance level (i.e., 1/m, where m is the number of options). The properties of the 2PLE model were described and compared with those of other guessing models. Then, a simulation study comparing the performance of the 2PLE model with that of the 3PL model under three scenarios was conducted. Results showed that the 2PLE model generally outperforms the 3PL model. Finally, the application of the new model in comparison with several existing models was demonstrated by using two real data sets.