Applying Structural Equation Modeling to Determine Construct Validity: Exploring Convergent and Differential Evidences for Fennema-Sherman's Mathematics Attitude Scales

Determining the structural validity of instruments is an important stage in research. Various methods have been suggested for analysis and estimation of structural validity. A more recent technique is Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) which has many advantages compared with other methods, manifested in its more accurate analysis, use of goodness-of-fit indices to confirm general structure, and high flexibility. In this article, applying the SEM to determine construct validity along with convergent and differential validity has been discussed. The proposed methods have been applied to data from Fennema and Sherman’s math attitude scales which had been administered on 340 ninth grade students from Tehran High Schools. Results reveal the accuracy on the proposed methods. With regard to the high potency of this method, its use in studies concerning scaling and test development is highly recommended.