A Tentative Study Of Computer-Based English Language Tests For First Graders In Yunnan Medical College

Language testing has always been a major concern in language teaching and learning. Modern science and technology has greatly advanced the development of language testing. Applying the IRT (Item response Theory), this thesis explores recent developments in the use of computers in language testing in item banking, computer-based language testing and computer-adaptive language testing, and focuses on the study of computer-based English language tests for first graders in Yunnan Medical college.This thesis consists of five chapters. The paper begins with a brief Introduction, which states the background of the study and the methods we employed. The Literature Review includes six parts. The first part gives a current state of the computer-based language tests; the second part conducts a comparative study between PBLT and CBLT; the third part focuses on the issues in relation to characteristics of CBLT. The fourth part offers some suggestions on developing and improving CBT tests. Chapter three, Methodology, describes the research methods and procedures in detail, while chapter four presents the results of the study and related discussions. In the last chapter, conclusion and Implications, the remaining problems are discussed, further research areas are suggested and the conclusions are offered.The thesis then examines the educational measurement literature in an attempt to forecast the directions future research on computers in language testing might take and suggests addressing the following issues: (a) to set up a high quality testing database; (b) to continue our study, and research on CALT, develop automated test system. In this way, students could choose different subjects, chapters and levels according to their needs, and the network will automatically produce testing papers for students; (c) to perfect campus network system. If automated test system is used on campus, it should be available for students to take exams at any moment.Finally, a new mode of language testing is introduced which proves to be valid and reliable. Properly handled, it will not only benefit the students and relieve the burden of teachers, but also bring about great positive effect on language teaching.