Using a linear mixed-effect model framework to estimate multivariate generalizability theory parameters in R

Abstract

Multivariate generalizability theory (mG-theory) is an important framework in many behavioral and educational studies, as it describes useful psychometric properties of multidimensional assessments. Nevertheless, the use of mG-theory estimation is limited due to the lack of available software for carrying out the necessary calculations: users rely heavily on independent software programs such as mGENOVA and the BUGS/JAGS suite of programs. Considering the prevalence of R software, this paper presents a solution using the glmmTMB package to accomplish the estimation task. Users adopting the proposed method may find it more convenient for conducting both applied investigation and simulation studies without the need to switch between different software programs.