A Cross-cultural Analysis of the Test of Science Related Attitudes
Open Access
Author:
Webb, Aubree Megan
Graduate Program:
Educational Psychology
Degree:
Master of Science
Document Type:
Master Thesis
Date of Defense:
May 08, 2014
Committee Members:
Stephanie L Knight, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor Hoi Kin Suen, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor
Keywords:
TOSRA DIF differential item functioning interest in science bias psychometrics
Abstract:
The purpose of this research is to analyze the Test of Science Related Attitudes (TOSRA; Fraser, 1981) for use with a Chinese population ranging in ages from 11-77. The TOSRA measures seven scales with seventy Likert-type items. This study analyzes the reliability and validity of this instrument with data from participants in Beijing, China. Results show that the TOSRA can be used with post-secondary participants, but some modifications are recommended based on respondents’ pattern of skipped questions (Enjoyment of Science Lessons scale), cultural sensitivity (Social Implications of Science scale), and construct bias (Adoption of Scientific Attitudes scale). For use with Chinese populations, only four scales are recommended: Attitude to Scientific Inquiry, Career Interest in Science, Normality of Scientists, and Leisure Interest in Science. The Adoption of Scientific Attitudes scale should be used with caution. We recommend more research on the ASA_09 item and possible construct bias for the ASA scale before administration with this population.
