ERIC Number: EJ1350787
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022-Oct
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0265-5322
EISSN: EISSN-1477-0946
IRT-Based Classification Analysis of an English Language Reading Proficiency Subtest
Language Testing, v39 n4 p541-566 Oct 2022
Language proficiency testing serves an important function of classifying examinees into different categories of ability. However, misclassification is to some extent inevitable and may have important consequences for stakeholders. Recent research suggests that classification efficacy may be enhanced substantially using computerized adaptive testing (CAT). Using real data simulations, the current study investigated the classification performance of CAT on the reading section of an English language proficiency test and made comparisons with the paper-based version of the same test. Classification analysis was carried out to estimate classification accuracy (CA) and classification consistency (CC) by applying different locations and numbers of cutoff points. The results showed that classification was suitable when a single cutoff score was used, particularly for high- and low-ability test takers. Classification performance declined significantly when multiple cutoff points were simultaneously employed. Content analysis also raised important questions about construct coverage in CAT. The results highlight the potential for CAT to serve classification purposes and outline avenues for further research.
Descriptors: Item Response Theory, Test Items, Language Tests, Classification, Content Analysis, Language Proficiency, Computer Assisted Testing, Test Format, Comparative Analysis, Cutting Scores, Construct Validity, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Accuracy, Reading Tests, Foreign Countries, Language of Instruction, College Entrance Examinations, Graduate Students, Undergraduate Students, College Preparation, Item Analysis
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2993
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Turkey (Ankara)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A