Developing A Test That Would Give Better Predictive Validity For Native Spanish-Speaking Students Who Are Awarded Credit By Examination

Author

Susan Segal, Nova Southeastern University

Date of Award

12-1-1989

Document Type

Thesis - NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Center for the Advancement of Education

Keywords

Foreign Language Placement Tests or Equivalency Tests, Credit by Examination, Predictive Validity, Test Format, Test Construction, Test Selection, Pilot Testing Programs.

Abstract

The serious deficiencies in format, content, and predictive validity of a Spanish I credit by examination test taken by native Spanish-speakers were addressed in this practicum. The proposed adoption of the level one 1988 National Spanish Examination, sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese, and an author-written supplement were evaluated as testing instruments to award credit and place students in advanced Spanish classes by district Spanish II and III teachers. One hundred percent of the Spanish teachers approved the proposed adoption of this examination which tests all aspects of linguistic competency, including the knowledge of grammar, vocabulary and graphology. Guidelines for piloting the exam are also included.