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Using the Rating Scale Model to Examine the Psychometric Properties of the Self-Efficacy Scale for Driver Competence

This study evaluated the psychometric properties of a self-report scale for
assessing perceived driver competence, labeled the Self-Efficacy Scale for
Driver Competence (SSDC), using item response theory analyses. Two samples of
Swedish driving-license examinees (n = 795; n
= 714) completed two versions of the SSDC that were parallel in content. Prior
work, using classical test theory analyses, has provided support for the
validity and reliability of scores from the SSDC. This study investigated the
measurement precision, item hierarchy, and differential functioning for males
and females of the items in the SSDC as well as how the rating scale functions.
The results confirmed the previous findings; that the SSDC demonstrates sound
psychometric properties. In addition, the findings showed that measurement
precision could be increased by adding items that tap higher self-efficacy
levels. Moreover, the rating scale can be improved by reducing the number of
categories or by providing each category with a label.

  • Content Type Journal Article
  • Category Original Article
  • Pages 164-170
  • DOI 10.1027/1015-5759/a000063
  • Authors
    • Anna Sundström, Department of Applied Educational Science, Umeå University,
      Umeå, Sweden