A Comparison of the Minimax and Rasch Approaches to Set Simultaneous Passing Scores for Subtests

Two approaches are described for the simultaneous determination of passing scores for subtests when the passing score for the total test is known. The minimax approach seeks subtest passing scores in such a way that there is maximum agreement between pass-fail classifications based on each subtest and pass-fail decisions based on the entire test. The Rasch procedure seeks subtest passing scores that occupy approximately the same place on the ability scale with the total test passing score. In the context of a basic skills assessment program, the two approaches yield essentially the same set of passing scores.