Latent Trait Theory

Latent Trait Theory suggests that certain underlying qualities—called latent traits—affect how individuals perform on tests or assessments. In the context of general knowledge, this means that a person's true level of knowledge, which isn't always directly visible, can influence their test scores. For example, someone may have a strong understanding of various topics but struggle with anxiety during tests, impacting their performance. By using statistical methods, this theory helps identify these hidden traits and provides insights into the factors that contribute to individuals' knowledge levels beyond just their visible performance.