ERIC Number: EJ1418888
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 27
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0265-5322
EISSN: EISSN-1477-0946
Comparing Two Formats of Data-Driven Rating Scales for Classroom Assessment of Pragmatic Performance with Roleplays
Language Testing, v41 n2 p357-383 2024
Rating scales that language testers design should be tailored to the specific test purpose and score use as well as reflect the target construct. Researchers have long argued for the value of data-driven scales for classroom performance assessment, because they are specific to pedagogical tasks and objectives, have rich descriptors to offer useful diagnostic information, and exhibit robust content representativeness and stable measurement properties. This sequential mixed methods study compares two data-driven rating scales with multiple criteria that use different formats for pragmatic performance. They were developed using roleplays performed by 43 second-language learners of Mandarin--the hierarchical-binary (HB) scale, developed through close analysis of performance data, and the multi-trait (MT) scale derived from the HB, which has the same criteria but takes the format of an analytic scale. Results revealed the influence of format, albeit to a limited extent: MT showed a marginal advantage over HB in terms of overall reliability, practicality, and discriminatory power, though measurement properties of the two scales were largely comparable. All raters were positive about the pedagogical value of both scales. This study reveals that rater perceptions of the ease of use and effectiveness of both scales provide further insights into scale functioning.
Descriptors: Rating Scales, Language Tests, Test Construction, Performance Based Assessment, Pragmatics, Role Playing, Second Language Learning, Mandarin Chinese, Test Validity
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A