Abstract

Testing and assessment in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) contexts has traditionally been carried out on the basis of a needs analysis of learners or a content analysis of courses. This is not surprising, given the dominance of needs analysis models in EAP, and a focus in test design that values adequacy of sampling as a major criterion in assessing the validity of an assessment procedure. This artide will reassess this approach to the development and validation of EAP tests on the basis of the theoretical model of Messick (1989) and recent research into content specificity, arguing that using content validity as a major criterion in test design and evaluation has been mistaken.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.