Continuous Rating Scale Analytics (CoRSA): A tool for analyzing continuous and discrete data with item response...

Area of Science:

• Psychometrics
• Statistical modeling
• Data analysis

Background:

• Continuous rating scales, such as the visual analogue scale (VAS), are underutilized in research compared to discrete scales like the Likert scale.
• This underutilization stems from a lack of validated analytical tools, user-friendly interfaces, and supporting theoretical/empirical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the gaps in analyzing continuous rating scales by developing and validating analytical tools.
• To enhance the accessibility and usability of continuous rating scale data analysis for researchers and practitioners.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Continuous Rating Scale Analytics (CoRSA) algorithm and software.
• Evaluation of CoRSA's efficacy against existing tools (pcIRT, ConQuest) using simulated and empirical data.
• Integration of CoRSA into the VAS-RRP 2.0 platform to improve user accessibility.

Main Results:

• CoRSA demonstrated superior parameter recovery for continuous data and comparable performance for discrete data.
• Empirical analysis using VAS and Likert scales with CoRSA showed good model-data fit and effective data rescaling.
• The integration of CoRSA into VAS-RRP 2.0 enhanced usability for users without statistical expertise.

Conclusions:

• CoRSA is a validated tool for analyzing both continuous and discrete rating scale data.
• The developed tool enhances the utility and application of continuous rating formats in various research settings.
• Increased accessibility of advanced statistical analysis promotes wider adoption of continuous rating scales.