Evaluating A Computer-Adaptive ESL Placement Test

Authors

  • Harold Madsen

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.v4i2.41-50

Keywords:

anxiety, CALT, computer adaptive, computerized adaptive, efficiency, item bank, Rasch analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to evaluate one of the first operational computerized-adaptive ESL tests in the United States. Utilizing an item bank of 300 grammar and reading items, the CALT exam was administered to 72 foreign students and later to 42 FL students; subjects also responded to a questionnaire. Results showed an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the computerized tests, but significant negative reaction by most Japanese students. In addition, the CALT was far more efficient than conventional paper and pencil tests.

References

Canale, Michael. 1986. "The Promise and Threat of Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Reading Comprehension." In Technology and Language Testing, Charles W. Stansfield (Ed.), 29-44. Washington, D.C.: TESOL.

Larson, Jerry W. and Harold S. Madsen. 1985. "Computerized Adaptive Language Testing: Moving Beyond Computer-Assisted Testing." CALICO Journal 3 (2): 3236, 43.

Madsen, Harold S. and Norma Murray. 1986. "Implementing Computerized Tailored Language Tests in an ESL Center." Paper presented at the Twentieth Annual TESOL Convention, Anaheim, California, March 4, 1986.

McBride, James R. and John T. Martin. 1983. "Reliability and Validity of Adaptive Ability Tests in a Military Setting." In New Horizons in Testing: Latent Trait Test Theory and Computerized Adaptive Testing, David J. Weiss (Ed.), 223-236. New York: Academic Press.

Tung, Peter. 1986. "Computerized Adaptive Testing: Implications for Language Test Developers." In Technology and Language Testing, Charles W. Stansfield (Ed.), 11-28. Washington, D.C.: TESOL.

Weiss, David J. (Ed.) 1983. New Horizons in Testing: Latent Trait Test Theory and Computerized Adaptive Testing. New York: Academic Press.

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Published

2013-01-14

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Madsen, H. (2013). Evaluating A Computer-Adaptive ESL Placement Test. CALICO Journal, 4(2), 41-50. https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.v4i2.41-50

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