confirmatory factor analysis

Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is a statistical technique used to test whether data fits a specific structure or model that researchers expect. Imagine you have a theory about how different aspects of general knowledge, like history or science, relate to a broader concept called "knowledge." CFA checks if the data collected supports this theory. It helps researchers confirm if their ideas about how these aspects are organized in people's minds are accurate, ensuring that the right patterns and relationships are observed in the data. This process is essential in validating psychological and educational theories.