Exploring Latent Constructs through Multimodal Data Analysis

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of three types of multimodal data‐response accuracy, response times, and eye‐tracking data‐derived from a computer‐based spatial rotation test. To tackle the complexity of high‐dimensional data analysis challenges, we have developed a methodological framework incorporating various statistical and machine learning methods. The results of our study reveal that hidden state transition probabilities, based on eye‐tracking features, may be contingent on skill mastery estimated from the fluency CDM model. The hidden state trajectory offers additional diagnostic insights into spatial rotation problem‐solving, surpassing the information provided by the fluency CDM alone. Furthermore, the distribution of participants across different hidden states reflects the intricate nature of visualizing objects in each item, adding a nuanced dimension to the characterization of item features. This complements the information obtained from item parameters in the fluency CDM model, which relies on response accuracy and response time. Our findings have the potential to pave the way for the development of new psychometric and statistical models capable of seamlessly integrating various types of multimodal data. This integrated approach promises more meaningful and interpretable results, with implications for advancing the understanding of cognitive processes involved in spatial rotation tests.