Investigating Test Purpose Pluralism and Test Retrofitting in High-Stakes Language Proficiency Testing

Authors

  • Melissa McLeod Queen's University

Abstract

There is a lack of clarity in current language testing practices regarding test retrofitting and repurposing. While Newton (2017) advocates for the inclusion of multiple perspectives in new test design, many existing tests are used in cases that extend far beyond their original intent. This literature review examines how despite the availability of 3 different models, there is little publically available research describing test retrofits. It provides an overview of the 3 models, a brief discussion of the available research, including the use of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for high-stakes immigration decisions, and concludes with suggestions for future research.

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Published

2021-06-22

Issue

Section

Literature Review/Revue de la documentation