Assessing L2 Learners' Listening Comprehension through Computerized and Timed Multimodal Mediation

Document Type : research article

Authors

1 Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University

2 English department, Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University

Abstract

The main ambition behind the present study was to test the applicability of Computerized Dynamic Listening Test (CDLT) in diagnosing and enhancing L2 learners' Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) in listening comprehension tasks through multimodal mediations (audio, text and picture). Following a graduated prompt approach and an implicit-to-explicit scale, a hierarchical array of mediations (aural, textual and visual) was presented to the participants. The results of t-test indicated that multimodal mediations resulted in significant changes in the listening ability of the learners. The analysis of CDLT scores revealed that learners with the same actual score gained different mediated and Learning Potential Scores (LPS), denoting that learners with the same independent abilities might require different types of mediations for their subsequent instruction. Moreover, the CDLT showcased the learners’ processing time as a precise measure of the learners’ underlying listening abilities and differential functioning. Finally, the study suggests the use of CDLT as a valid procedure for instructional, learning and large-scale assessment purposes.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Foreign Language Research
Volume 9, Issue 3
January 2020
Pages 861-878

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