ILTA 2022 Best Article Award Winner

The winning article for the ILTA 2022 Best Article Award is:

Aryadoust, V., Foo, S., & Ng, L. Y. (2022). What can gaze behaviors, neuroimaging data, and test scores tell us about test method effects and cognitive load in listening assessments?Language Testing, 39(1), 56-89.https://doi.org/10.1177/02655322211026876

Below is the citation prepared by the Award Committee:

This groundbreaking study meticulously investigated the cognitive processes involved in different presentation formats of listening assessments, utilizing eye-tracking and neuroimaging data. Grounded in Sweller’s cognitive load theory, the authors articulated and tested a set of hypotheses regarding the differential cognitive load imposed by while-listening vs. post-listening performance formats. Employing a rigorous study design that integrates eye-tracking and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) neuroimaging, the study offers compelling empirical evidence on how test presentation methods affect cognitive load and listening test performance. This innovative approach not only advances our understanding of cognitive load theory in the context of language assessment but also pioneers the use of such techniques for validity research in language assessment. The authors present the complex study design and findings in a comprehensive way and suggest both theoretical and practical implications for test design and validity. We commend the authors for their rigorous research and contribution to enhancing our knowledge of the effects of listening assessment methods on cognitive load and performance.

The following articles were also shortlisted by the Committee, and we congratulate the authors for their excellent work:

Roever, C., & Ikeda, N. (2022). What scores from monologic speaking tests can(not) tell us about interactional competence.Language Testing, 39(1), 7-29.

Shin, J., & Gierl, M. J. (2022). Generating reading comprehension items using automated processes.International Journal of Testing, 22(3-4), 289-311.

Suzuki, S., Kormos, J., Yasuda, T., & Hanzawa, K. (2022). How does creativity affect second language speech production? The moderating role of speaking task type.TESOL Quarterly, 56(4), 1321-1344.

We would like to thank the panel for their hard work and diligence in reaching the final decision and extend our congratulations to the authors.

 
Best wishes,
ILTA Executive Board