The attribute hierarchy method for cognitive assessment: A variation on Tatsuoka's rule-space approach

A cognitive item response theory model called the attribute hierarchy method (AHM) is introduced and illustrated. This method represents a variation of Tatsuoka's rule-space approach. The AHM is designed explicitly to link cognitive theory and psychometric practice to facilitate the development and analyses of educational and psychological tests. The following are described: cognitive properties of the AHM; psychometric properties of the AHM, as well as a demonstration of how the AHM differs from Tatsuoka's rule-space approach; and application of the AHM to the domain of syllogistic reasoning to illustrate how this approach can be used to evaluate the cognitive competencies required in a higher-level thinking task. Future directions for research are also outlined.