Diagnostic measurement

Abstract

With diagnostic measurement, the aim is to identify causes or underlying properties of a problem or characteristic for the purposes of making classification-based decisions. The decisions are based on a nuanced profile of attributes or skills obtained from observable characteristics of an individual. In this chapter, we discuss psychometric methodologies involved in engaging in diagnostic measurement. We define basic terms in measurement, describe diagnostic classification models in the context of latent variable models, demonstrate an empirical example, and express the broad purpose of how diagnostic assessment can be useful in management and related fields.