Bob Mislevy's Contributions to Large‐Scale Assessments

Abstract Bob Mislevy made several important contributions to large‐scale educational survey assessments (LSAs). The contributions include implementing marginal maximum likelihood estimation of item response theory model parameters, using latent variable regression to condition proficiency estimates on background characteristics, and using multiple imputation (plausible values) to report assessment results. All these pieces were needed to analyze LSA data, report the results, and produce the data products needed for secondary users. In addition, Mislevy provided analyses of potential bias, giving users confidence that this novel approach to producing results yielded reliable information. Although procedures have since evolved, the approach and combination of techniques introduced in the 1984 NAEP reading assessment remain the cornerstones of LSA analysis and reporting in NAEP and internationally, some 40 years later.