Optimizing the Measurement of Resident Advisors’ Self-Efficacy Using the Rasch Model

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Abstract
Resident advisors play an important role in student success by providing peer leadership in residence halls. However, limited information and instruments are available to measure RA perceptions about their abilities to fulfill this role. This study proposes a new instrument and process to optimize the measurement of RA self-efficacy using locally developed items sourced from RA duties established by the host institution. The Rasch model was used to provide validity evidence for inferences regarding RA self-efficacy based on a sample of 171 RAs from a large university in the southeastern United States. The proposed 23-item instrument produced reliable results across items and RAs to measure RA self-efficacy. The instrument could be used by other institutions to measure RA self-efficacy, assuming that the job duties align with those of the host institution. However, there is still room for improvement with the existing instrument such as optimizing the measurement of RAs with higher levels of self-efficacy. Insights from this procedure can guide higher education institutions interested in developing instruments for use with student housing staff to inform hiring, training, and intervention programs. Implications for practice and policy are also provided.

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