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3 - A Systematic Review of Argument-Based Validation Studies in the Field of Language Testing (2000–2018)

from Part I - Basic Concepts and Uses of Validity Argument in Language Testing and Assessment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 January 2021

By
Ahmet Dursun  and
Zhi Li
Edited by
Carol A. Chapelle  and
Erik Voss
Carol A. Chapelle
Affiliation:
Iowa State University
Erik Voss
Affiliation:
Teachers College, Columbia University
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Summary

Since the publication of Kane (2006) on argument-based validation and the validation project by Chapelle, Enright, and Jamieson (2008), a trend of employing argument-based approach in language testing validation research has emerged as observed by Chapelle and Voss (2013). To better understand this recent trend, this systematic review study identified and analyzed the argument-based validation studies published from 2000 to 2018. A comprehensive literature search was conducted with multiple search terms (e.g., validity, argument-based validation, inferences, etc.) on a variety of research publication sources, including peer-reviewed academic journals, research reports, and dissertations. After applying pre-established inclusion criteria, 70 studies were retained, including 45 journal articles or research reports and 25 doctoral dissertations. The claims and inferences employed in these studies were analyzed into themes and categorized under Chapelle, Enright, and Jamieson (2008)’s framework. In addition, the research methodology addressing the warrants, rebuttals and backing in each study was documented and reviewed. Based on the results of this analysis, we make suggestions about constructing interpretation and use arguments as well as evaluating the coherence and plausibility of the validity arguments in various testing contexts.

Keywords

argument based approachlanguage testingresearch reportsjournal articleslanguage assessment research
Type
Chapter
Information
Validity Argument in Language Testing
Case Studies of Validation Research
 , pp. 45 - 70
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2021

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