Papers in language testing and assessment (pLTA) Best PAPER award
PLTA Best Paper Award 2013-2015
It is our pleasure to announce the winner, runner-up and the finalist of the PLTA Best Paper Award 2013-2015.
Winner:
Knoch, U., & Elder, C. (2013). A framework for validating post-entry language assessments (PELAs). Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 2(2), 48-66.
Citation:
This paper presents a significant and substantive step in the development of PELAs (Post-entry English Language Assessments) in Australia and New Zealand over the past 20 years. This paper is an extremely useful adaptation of the validity argument conceptualisation into a practical framework for validating PELAs. It provides broader applicability in terms of the discussion of validation/evaluation distinction. The framework will no doubt be influential in time for many institutions developing PELAs.
Runner-up:
Hudson, C., & Angelo, D. (2014). Concepts underpinning innovations to second language proficiency scales inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners: a dynamic process in progress. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 44-85.
Citation:
This paper not only has an invaluable contribution to language assessment in the Australian context, but also practical implications for other similar contexts. It documents the development of an instrument which has arisen out of social and pedagogical need with considerable input from classroom teachers. This paper is an excellent example of how a rating scale can serve a professional development role and how assessment instruments might fit in the nexus of second language acquisition, descriptive linguistics, policy and education.
Other Finalists:
Clark, M. (2014). The use of semi-scripted speech in a listening placement test for university students. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(2), 1-26.
Ruegg, R. (2014). The effect of assessment of peer feedback on the quantity and quality of feedback given. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 24-43.
Kokhan, K. & Lin, C-K. (2014) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Interpretation of multiple score reports for ESL placement. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 1-23.
Selection Committee:
Associate Professor Aek Phakiti (Chair)
Associate Professor Angela Scarino
Dr Rosemary Wette
Dr Susy Macqueen
Criteria for Selection
It is our pleasure to announce the winner, runner-up and the finalist of the PLTA Best Paper Award 2013-2015.
Winner:
Knoch, U., & Elder, C. (2013). A framework for validating post-entry language assessments (PELAs). Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 2(2), 48-66.
Citation:
This paper presents a significant and substantive step in the development of PELAs (Post-entry English Language Assessments) in Australia and New Zealand over the past 20 years. This paper is an extremely useful adaptation of the validity argument conceptualisation into a practical framework for validating PELAs. It provides broader applicability in terms of the discussion of validation/evaluation distinction. The framework will no doubt be influential in time for many institutions developing PELAs.
Runner-up:
Hudson, C., & Angelo, D. (2014). Concepts underpinning innovations to second language proficiency scales inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners: a dynamic process in progress. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 44-85.
Citation:
This paper not only has an invaluable contribution to language assessment in the Australian context, but also practical implications for other similar contexts. It documents the development of an instrument which has arisen out of social and pedagogical need with considerable input from classroom teachers. This paper is an excellent example of how a rating scale can serve a professional development role and how assessment instruments might fit in the nexus of second language acquisition, descriptive linguistics, policy and education.
Other Finalists:
Clark, M. (2014). The use of semi-scripted speech in a listening placement test for university students. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(2), 1-26.
Ruegg, R. (2014). The effect of assessment of peer feedback on the quantity and quality of feedback given. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 24-43.
Kokhan, K. & Lin, C-K. (2014) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Interpretation of multiple score reports for ESL placement. Papers in Language Testing and Assessment, 3(1), 1-23.
Selection Committee:
Associate Professor Aek Phakiti (Chair)
Associate Professor Angela Scarino
Dr Rosemary Wette
Dr Susy Macqueen
Criteria for Selection
- The contribution of the work to the field of language testing and assessment, or to the interface between language testing and other areas of enquiry (and in particular the originality of the contribution).
- The persuasiveness of the argument (whether based on the interpretation of empirical data, theoretical rationales, or both).
- The thoroughness of the literature review.
- The clarity of presentation (written expression; the use of figures and tables, where appropriate).
- In the case of empirical studies, the quality of the procedures for data-gathering and analysis.