<b>Elaboration and validation of an ESL/EFL software evaluation instrument</b><br>

Vládia Borges

doi:10.5007/2175-8026.2011n60p305

Authors

Vládia Borges Federal University of Ceará

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/2175-8026.2011n60p305

Abstract

This study aimed at elaborating and validating an ESL/EFL software evaluation instrument that encompassed theprinciples of Communicative Language Teaching and aninteractive approach to computer use for language learning.Once the instrument was elaborated, it was tested for itsinternal consistency and inter-item and inter-rater reliability.The results of the Pearson Coefficient and the ICC Coefficientmeasures indicated high levels of inter-rater reliability for thegroup of 26 teachers. The Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficients for thethree programs indicated that the ESL/EFL software evaluationinstrument had adequate levels of inter-item reliability. Theseresults suggest that the ESL/EFL software evaluation instrumenthas high levels of internal consistency. These results indicate thatthe evaluation instrument has a high degree of reliability. Thepositive indicators of reliability obtained from the proceduresused to assess the inter-rater reliability and the internalconsistency and the face and content validity attributed tothe instrument suggest that the ESL/EFL software evaluation instrument is potentially valid for assessing the degree to whichESL/EFL software programs develop language skills accordingto the Communicative Language Teaching principles and aninteractive approach to computer use in language learning.

Author Biography

Vládia Borges, Federal University of Ceará

"Vládia Borges: Associate Professor at the Federal University of Ceara, Brazil and director of the UAB/UFC Online English Teaching Certification Program (Licenciatura em Língua Inglesa à Distância – UAB/UFC). Obtained Ph.D. in Education with specialization in Language and Culture from Rhode Island College/University of Rhode Island (USA); title of doctoral dissertation: “The Incorporation of Communicative Language Teaching into the Elaboration of Interactive Software for ESL/EFL Learning”, 2006. Co-directed a CNPq granted research project on the uses of virtual reality for language learning (1999 – 2001). Has conducted research on CALL, language acquisition, and text processing. Has developed language learning software using virtual reality, multimedia resources, and the Internet. Research interests include: CALL, distance learning, text processing, and language acquisition."