@article {387, title = {A practitioner{\textquoteright}s guide to variable-length computerized classification testing}, journal = {Practical Assessment, Research and Evaluation}, volume = {12 }, number = {1}, year = {2007}, month = {7/1/2009}, chapter = {January, 2007}, abstract = {Variable-length computerized classification tests, CCTs, (Lin \& Spray, 2000; Thompson, 2006) are a powerful and efficient approach to testing for the purpose of classifying examinees into groups. CCTs are designed by the specification of at least five technical components: psychometric model, calibrated item bank, starting point, item selection algorithm, and termination criterion. Several options exist for each of these CCT components, creating a myriad of possible designs. Confusion among designs is exacerbated by the lack of a standardized nomenclature. This article outlines the components of a CCT, common options for each component, and the interaction of options for different components, so that practitioners may more efficiently design CCTs. It also offers a suggestion of nomenclature. }, keywords = {CAT, classification, computer adaptive testing, computerized adaptive testing, Computerized classification testing}, author = {Thompson, N. A.} }