Empirical validation of the Strengthened Australian Qualifications Framework using Item Response Theory

Abstract

This study set out to empirically examine the revised architectural design of the Strengthened Australian Qualifications Framework. There were four elements of the strengthened framework that were to be examined: 1. A levels structure with ten levels expressed as learning outcomes (referred to as Levels Criteria) 2. Revised descriptors for each of the existing 14 Qualification Types (and two kinds) expressed as learning outcomes (referred to as Qualification Type Descriptors). 3. The interaction between the Qualification Types and the Levels Structure. 4. A measurement of the notional duration of student learning for each Qualification Type. The study was designed to examine the measuremen..