Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2014-2020
Title: Innovations by Nancy Petersen: Shaping Computer Adaptive Testing
Introduction
Nancy Petersen, an accomplished inventor based in Solon, Iowa, has made significant contributions to the field of computer adaptive testing (CAT). With a total of three patents to her name, Petersen is dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of assessment methodologies.
Latest Patents
Petersen's most recent patents focus on methods that improve test efficiency and accuracy in computer adaptive testing. One notable patent outlines a method for using pretest items to calculate interim scores. This innovative approach employs a computer-implemented test comprising several items, including operational and pretest items. By calculating an interim latent construct estimate using both types of items, the method ensures the error for the estimation is minimized by appropriately weighting the contributions from the pretest items.
Another patent addresses test item selection within a computer-implemented test battery consisting of multiple sections. This invention calculates an ability estimate from earlier sections, allowing for the selection of initial and subsequent items based on those estimates. By utilizing a more informative initial ability estimate, this method significantly enhances interim ability estimation accuracy while maintaining acceptable levels of item exposure and usage.
Career Highlights
Nancy Petersen works with a leading organization in the field, ACT, Inc., where she has honed her skills and contributed to groundbreaking research on educational assessments. Her expertise in testing methodologies has been crucial in shaping the future of educational evaluation.
Collaborations
During her time at ACT, Inc., Petersen has collaborated with talented professionals like Lisa Gawlick and Changhui Zhang. These partnerships have fostered an environment of innovation and progress within the company, enabling the development of advanced testing solutions that address real-world challenges.
Conclusion
Nancy Petersen's innovative work in computer adaptive testing exemplifies the significance of advancements in educational assessments. Through her patents, she has greatly impacted the field by introducing methods that enhance both the efficiency and accuracy of testing systems. Her contributions continue to influence future developments in assessment technology, solidifying her role as a key figure in the evolution of educational evaluation practices.