The engineering student identity scale a cross disciplinary exploration of factor structure

To correctly engage in the instrument development process takes time. According to Benson's model of construct validation (1) there are at least three lengthy stages (substantive, structural, external) to construct validation when developing a new measure. This study examines how instrument structure impacts the validation process and what it can tell us about instrument revision. In this study we will take a closer look at the development of the Engineering Student Identity Scale (ESIS). After engaging in the in-depth substantive stage of instrument development, the instrument developers began the process of examining whether the anticipated factor structure of the measure fit the observed data. Results from a series of CFA analyses indicated that none of the hypothesized models fit the observed data. While instrument revision at any stage of development is important and likely to lead to a better measure, it is important to gather as much information as possible from each stage to guide revisions. In an effort to better understand how the items on the ESIS instrument function together, a cross-disciplinary team of psychology and engineering experts conducted a series of CFAs and an EFA to examine the factor structure present in the observed data. Initial results support a six-factor structure. Implications for the next round of instrument development are discussed.