An Investigation Into the Extrapolation Inference of a University-Level ESL Writing Test

• In Event: Validity Evidence in Writing and Science Assessments

Abstract

The extrapolation inference, a component of the validity frameworks proposed by Kane et al. (1999), has been researched in many studies. However, only a few studies examined the extrapolation inference of writing tests developed by universities. Therefore, this study aims at investigating the extrapolation inference of the writing test in the English Language Assessment Program (ELAP) at an American university. Results showed no relationship between 304 graduate international students’ ELAP writing scores and their TOEFL iBT writing scores, IELTS writing scores, GRE writing scores as well as final scores in lower and upper level ESL writing classes. Conclusively, there was no evidence to support the extrapolation inference of the ELAP writing test.

Author

• Dung (Davy) Tran, The University of Texas - San Antonio