a statistical measure of how well an item on a test differentiates among subgroups of test takers, typically those individuals who possess a high degree of some ability versus those who possess a low degree of the ability. Item discriminabilities typically are given as correlation coefficients ranging from −1 to +1 in value, with the latter indicating a perfect discriminator. Interitem correlations also may be used in determining item discriminability. See item analysis.
n. an inflammation of the pancreas, marked by severe abdominal pain and caused by biliary tract disorders (e.g., gallstones), alcoholism, viral infection, or reactions to certain drugs (e.g., some antipsychotic agents).