An IRT analysis based on p (proportion correct) and r (item-test correlation) is proposed for a group of tests having items in common. The procedure is a generalization of a procedure proposed by De Gruijter and Mooijaart (1983) which is related to procedures for the factor analysis of dichotomous data. The pro cedure results in IRT item parameters using data from examinee groups with subsets of common items; it is, therefore, particularly appropriate for calibrating items for use in small-scale item banks. Simulated data are used to illustrate the procedure.
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