Finding pearls: Psychometric reevaluation of the Simpson-Troost Attitude Questionnaire (STAQ)

The Simpson-Troost Attitude Questionnaire (STAQ) was developed as part of a study to assess adolescent commitment to and achievement in science. For this psychometric reappraisal of the 57-item STAQ, data were analyzed from a convenience sample of 1,754 secondary students. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were applied, and results suggested that the STAQ can be shortened from 57 to 22 items spanning five revised dimensions. These five dimensions were arranged into an exploratory structural equation model, which showed some grade and gender differences and strong associations among classroom environment, self-directed effort, and science affect. Findings raise the potential for teacher professional development to improve science classroom activities, and influence student self-directed effort and science affect.