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This three-article dissertation addresses three different yet interrelated topics: language testing, assessment, and evaluation. The first article (Saudi Student Placement into ESL Program Levels: Issues beyond Test Criteria) addresses a crucial yet understudied issue concerning why lower-level ESL classes typically contain a disproportionate number of Saudi students. Based on data obtained from different stakeholders, the findings revealed that one-third of the study students intentionally underperformed on ESL placement tests. However, ESL administrators participating in this study provided contradicting findings. The second article explores the efficacy of (Integrating Self-assessment Techniques into L2 Classroom Assessment Procedures) by examining the accuracy of CEFR self-assessment rubric compared to students' TOEFL scores, and the extent to which gender and levels of language proficiency cause any potential score underestimation. By obtaining data from 21 ESL students attending the Center for English as a Second Language at University of Arizona, the findings revealed no statistically significant correlations between participants' self-assessed scores and their TOEFL scores. However, the participants reported that the CEFR self-assessment rubric is accurate in measuring their levels of language proficiency. On the other hand, the third article (Quality Assurance and Accreditation as Forms for Language Program Evaluation: A Case Study of Two EFL Departments in A Saudi University) provides a simulated program evaluation based on an integrated set of standards of the NCAAA (the National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment) and CEA (the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation). The findings indicated that the standards of the mission, curriculum, student learning outcomes, and program development, planning, and review, were partially met, whereas the standards of teaching strategies, assessment methods, and student achievement were not.

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<p dir="ltr">Fearlessness is a construct often discussed in clinical and personality psychology. However, at the self-report trait level, there is little work focusing on its empirical structure and how that applies to measurement. The present study examined the IPIP-Fearlessness scale using experience sampling methodology to examine how scores on the measure predict behaviors in daily life. Using a pre-registered analytical approach, participants completed a baseline survey and brief daily surveys six times daily for one full week. The final sample consisted of 241 participants. Criterion variables measuring boldness, general personality, sensation seeking, and sensitivity to reward and punishment were also correlated with the IPIP-Fearlessness measure’s subscales, and a confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the measure’s structure.</p><p dir="ltr">Results showed that two of the IPIP-Fearless subscales (Low Anxiety and Sociability) did predict daily behaviors, whereas there were not significant predictions found for the other behaviors. Affect (negative, positive, anxious, bored) was also found to be significant predictor for several of the behavioral outcome variables, as well as interpersonal status. Additional exploratory analyses were also conducted. The findings from this study continue to elucidate how we can use empirically derived self-report trait fearlessness, and its relationship to additional constructs and behaviors.</p>

<p dir="ltr">A major challenge to promoting effective early science and engineering education is the lack of reliable and validated assessments that align with current educational guidelines for science and engineering. Existing early science and engineering assessments either cover a narrow range of concepts and practices and/or are not designed in a way to evaluate and provide information within theorized dimensions of science and engineering knowledge and skills. The goals of this study were to develop a preschool science and engineering assessment and to examine the factor structure of children’s science and engineering knowledge and skills using the newly developed assessment. A 120-item assessment was developed and administered to 186 children (50.28% female) ages 3-to-5 years (<i>M </i>= 4.62 years, <i>SD</i> = 0.61 years). The overall best fitting structure of the assessment was found to be a three-dimensional model: disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts. Items that had low correlations with the overall test, loaded poorly onto their respective factors, or were found to provide overlapping information with other items (i.e., exhibited similar difficulties for the same content areas) were removed, resulting in a final and brief (48-item) version of the assessment. This study has important implications in that the newly developed science and engineering assessment can be used in both the research (e.g., evaluate curricula, interventions) and classroom (e.g., assess learning) settings to provide information at the dimension-level, and has the potential to transform how we view and instruct science and engineering during the early childhood years.</p>

The thesis summarizes methods used to finding material characteristics of reinforced concrete structures, treatment plan of diagnostic survey on the basis of visual inspection of the bridge, documentation of diagnosticated defects and condition assessment of the bridge.

The aim of this thesis is to ascertain whether and to what extent English language lessons at Czech secondary schools are affected by the so-called washback effect related to the final leaving examination ("maturita"), and to attempt to define how this potential negative impact may be minimized. The washback effect phenomenon occurs when a (language) course is concluded by a final examination, and describes how such an examination influences the actual curriculum, the instruction as such, and all the participants. Applied linguistics offers a number of both theoretical and empirical studies conducted worldwide which focus on the particular aspects of the washback effect occurring during language examinations. This thesis strives to follow up on the findings of these empirical studies and apply them to the current centralised Czech form of the English "maturita" examination. The thesis was initially inspired by students' observations during English lessons at a Czech grammar school, which were a part of pedagogical education at the Faculty of Arts of the Charles University. After establishing the focus of the paper, preliminary research in the form of semi- structured interviews with four students in the final grades at Prague grammar schools was conducted. While this pre-research study allowed only...

<p dir="ltr">It has been shown that formative assessments can lead to improvements in the learning process. Cognitive Diagnostic Models (CDMs) are a powerful formative assessment tool that can be used to provide individuals with valuable information regarding skill mastery in educational settings. These models provide each student with a ``skill mastery profile'' that shows the level of mastery they have obtained with regard to a specific set of skills. These profiles can be used to help both students and educators make more informed decisions regarding the educational process, which can in turn accelerate learning for students. However, despite their utility, these models are rarely used with small sample sizes. One reason for this is that these models are often complex, containing many parameters that can be difficult to estimate accurately when working with a small number of observations. This work aims to contribute to and expand upon previous work to make CDMs more accessible for a wider range of educators and students.</p><p dir="ltr">There are three main small sample statistical problems that we address in this work: 1) accurate estimation of the population distribution of skill mastery profiles, 2) accurate estimation of additional model parameters for CDMs as well as improved classification of individual skill mastery profiles, and 3) improved selection of an appropriate CDM for each item on the assessment. Each of these problems deals with a different aspect of educational measurement and the solutions provided to these problems can ultimately lead to improvements in the educational process for both students and teachers. By finding solutions to these problems that work well when using small sample sizes, we make it possible to improve learning in everyday classroom settings and not just in large scale assessment settings.</p><p dir="ltr">In the first part of this work, we propose novel algorithms for estimating the population distribution of skill mastery profiles for a popular CDM, the Deterministic Inputs Noisy ``and'' Gate (DINA) model. These algorithms borrow inspiration from the concepts behind popular machine learning algorithms. However, in contrast to these methods, which are often used solely for prediction, we illustrate how the ideas behind these methods can be adapted to obtain estimates of specific model parameters. Through studies involving simulated and real-life data, we illustrate how the proposed algorithms can be used to gain a better picture of the distribution of skill mastery profiles for an entire population students, but can do so by only using a small sample of students from that population. </p><p dir="ltr">In the second part of this work, we introduce a new method for regularizing high-dimensional CDMs using a class of Bayesian shrinkage priors known as catalytic priors. We show how a simpler model can first be fit to the observed data and then be used to generate additional pseudo-observations that, when combined with the original observations, make it easier to more accurately estimate the parameters in a complex model of interest. We propose an alternative, simpler model that can be used instead of the DINA model and show how the information from this model can be used to formulate an intuitive shrinkage prior that effectively regularizes model parameters. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of parameter estimates for the more complex model, which in turn leads to better classification of skill mastery. We demonstrate the utility of this method in studies involving simulated and real-life data and show how the proposed approach is superior to other common approaches for small sample estimation of CDMs.</p><p dir="ltr">Finally, we discuss the important problem of selecting the most appropriate model for each item on assessment. Often, it is not uncommon in practice to use the same CDM for each item on an assessment. However, this can lead to suboptimal results in terms of parameter estimation and overall model fit. Current methods for item-level model selection rely on large sample asymptotic theory and are thus inappropriate when the sample size is small. We propose a Bayesian approach for performing item-level model selection using Reversible Jump Markov chain Monte Carlo. This approach allows for the simultaneous estimation of posterior probabilities and model parameters for each candidate model and does not require a large sample size to be valid. We again demonstrate through studies involving simulated and real-life data that the proposed approach leads to a much higher chance of selecting the best model for each item. This in turn leads to better estimates of item and other model parameters, which ultimately leads to more accurate information regarding skill mastery. </p>

Diversas pesquisas apontam para uma força da tradição imperando nas aulas de Língua Portuguesa. As teorias linguísticas chegam às escolas, mas abalam timidamente as aulas de gramática normativa tradicional. Nossa pesquisa segue um percurso que parte de nossa experiência profissional, de nossas indagações, para tentar investigar as nuances, dentro de um determinado contexto escolar, que dificultam o processo de aliar a teoria à prática na sala de aula. Partimos da hipótese de que este apego à tradição e o foco em atividades metalinguísticas pouco contribuem para uma aprendizagem significativa da língua. Tendo em vista testes nacionais e internacionais que apontam inadequações no uso da modalidade escrita da língua (leitura e produção escrita) pelos alunos que concluem o Ensino Fundamental e a ênfase histórica das aulas de Língua Portuguesa em atividades gramaticais de metalinguagem (nomenclaturas e classificações), questionamo-nos como as aulas de Língua Portuguesa podem ser reconfiguradas para potencializar o desenvolvimento das habilidades linguísticas dos alunos. Assim, realizamos um estudo qualitativo com duas professoras e suas cinco turmas de 9º ano, em uma escola pública municipal de São Paulo. As professoras nos forneceram dados por meio de relatos escritos de suas vivências, questionário e conversações informais cotidianas. Realizamos Avaliação Diagnóstica e Formativa (ADeF) do desempenho linguístico dos alunos, analisamos cadernos de alunos indicados pelas professoras como os melhores de suas turmas, planejamos e conduzimos uma oficina de linguagem (atividades linguísticas e epilinguísticas) com esses alunos. Alguns dos resultados indicam que as dificuldades das professoras em aliar teoria e prática estão relacionadas com a formação inicial e preliminar de cada uma e não necessariamente com a formação universitária e contínua em que se constitui o conhecimento teórico; levantamos fortes evidências de que a maneira como ensinamos reproduz ou é fortemente influenciada pela maneira como aprendemos; constatamos que a ausência da ADeF como prática efetiva se apresenta como um importante elemento que dificulta o conhecimento (por parte do professor) do que considerar no processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Ainda foi possível verificar que ADeF não compõe um critério de formação das turmas. Um professor pesquisador que busque aliar teoria e prática deve estar preparado para enfrentar inúmeros desafios e criar oportunidades para crianças e jovens se desenvolverem, preparando-se para se envolverem com as incertezas do cotidiano. Isso pode significar quão importantes serão, para professores e alunos, as novas vivências, por meio de oficinas contendo práticas mais eficazes para podermos nos desvencilhar de algumas amarras do passado, ou seja, da formação preliminar ou formatação preliminar a que fomos submetidos. / Previous knolwedge and school context underlying theory application to practice: diagnostic testing and formative assessment as a starting point to language and epilanguage activities Several studies point to the power of tradition that rules Portuguese classes. Language theories get to schools but little they influence or change the traditional, prescriptive grammar-based classes. This study starts off from our own professional experience and the questions arisen within a specific context in order to investigate the nuances that make it difficult to relate theory to practice in the classroom. We begin with the hypothesis that this attachment to theory and the focus on metalinguistic activities contribute very little to meaningful language learning. With national and international exams in mind, which point at the inappropriate use of the written language (reading and writing skills) students who are finishing middle school have, and also with the historical emphasis on metalinguistic grammar activities the Portuguese language classes have (exploring synthatic categories and classifying), we enquire how Portuguese language classes can be reconfigured to optimize students development of linguisctic skills. Thus,we undertook a qualitative study with two teachers and their five groups of 9th graders in a public municipal school in São Paulo. We gathered data from the teachers by means of written reports of teaching experience, questionnaire and daily informal talks. Students also took a diagnostic formative test (in Portuguese, ADeF) in order to have their linguistic performance assessed and we analized the notebooks of the best students in the classes, according to the teachers. We also planned and carried a language workshop with the students, which included linguistic and epilinguistic activities. Some results indicate that some of the difficulties teacher have in applying theory to practice are related to their schooling, not necessarily from their university undergraduation courses or continuing teacher education courses in which the theoretical knowledge is built. Strong evidence showed that the way we teach reproduce or is strongly influencced by the wahy we learn. We also xxx that the lack of ADef as an efficient practice is an important element that makes it difficult for teachers to decide to what to consider in the teachinglearning process.Moreover, it was possible to identify that ADeF is not an criteria used to form the groups. A teacher-researcher that aims to relate theory and practice should be prepared to face several challenges and create opportunities to children and youngsters, preparing them to deal with the daily uncertanties. This may mean how important new experiences will be to teacher and students in workshops that contain more efficient practices so that we can undo some of the knots from our past schooling or preliminary formatting

Diversas pesquisas apontam para uma força da tradição imperando nas aulas de Língua Portuguesa. As teorias linguísticas chegam às escolas, mas abalam timidamente as aulas de gramática normativa tradicional. Nossa pesquisa segue um percurso que parte de nossa experiência profissional, de nossas indagações, para tentar investigar as nuances, dentro de um determinado contexto escolar, que dificultam o processo de aliar a teoria à prática na sala de aula. Partimos da hipótese de que este apego à tradição e o foco em atividades metalinguísticas pouco contribuem para uma aprendizagem significativa da língua. Tendo em vista testes nacionais e internacionais que apontam inadequações no uso da modalidade escrita da língua (leitura e produção escrita) pelos alunos que concluem o Ensino Fundamental e a ênfase histórica das aulas de Língua Portuguesa em atividades gramaticais de metalinguagem (nomenclaturas e classificações), questionamo-nos como as aulas de Língua Portuguesa podem ser reconfiguradas para potencializar o desenvolvimento das habilidades linguísticas dos alunos. Assim, realizamos um estudo qualitativo com duas professoras e suas cinco turmas de 9º ano, em uma escola pública municipal de São Paulo. As professoras nos forneceram dados por meio de relatos escritos de suas vivências, questionário e conversações informais cotidianas. Realizamos Avaliação Diagnóstica e Formativa (ADeF) do desempenho linguístico dos alunos, analisamos cadernos de alunos indicados pelas professoras como os melhores de suas turmas, planejamos e conduzimos uma oficina de linguagem (atividades linguísticas e epilinguísticas) com esses alunos. Alguns dos resultados indicam que as dificuldades das professoras em aliar teoria e prática estão relacionadas com a formação inicial e preliminar de cada uma e não necessariamente com a formação universitária e contínua em que se constitui o conhecimento teórico; levantamos fortes evidências de que a maneira como ensinamos reproduz ou é fortemente influenciada pela maneira como aprendemos; constatamos que a ausência da ADeF como prática efetiva se apresenta como um importante elemento que dificulta o conhecimento (por parte do professor) do que considerar no processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Ainda foi possível verificar que ADeF não compõe um critério de formação das turmas. Um professor pesquisador que busque aliar teoria e prática deve estar preparado para enfrentar inúmeros desafios e criar oportunidades para crianças e jovens se desenvolverem, preparando-se para se envolverem com as incertezas do cotidiano. Isso pode significar quão importantes serão, para professores e alunos, as novas vivências, por meio de oficinas contendo práticas mais eficazes para podermos nos desvencilhar de algumas amarras do passado, ou seja, da formação preliminar ou formatação preliminar a que fomos submetidos. / Previous knolwedge and school context underlying theory application to practice: diagnostic testing and formative assessment as a starting point to language and epilanguage activities Several studies point to the power of tradition that rules Portuguese classes. Language theories get to schools but little they influence or change the traditional, prescriptive grammar-based classes. This study starts off from our own professional experience and the questions arisen within a specific context in order to investigate the nuances that make it difficult to relate theory to practice in the classroom. We begin with the hypothesis that this attachment to theory and the focus on metalinguistic activities contribute very little to meaningful language learning. With national and international exams in mind, which point at the inappropriate use of the written language (reading and writing skills) students who are finishing middle school have, and also with the historical emphasis on metalinguistic grammar activities the Portuguese language classes have (exploring synthatic categories and classifying), we enquire how Portuguese language classes can be reconfigured to optimize students development of linguisctic skills. Thus,we undertook a qualitative study with two teachers and their five groups of 9th graders in a public municipal school in São Paulo. We gathered data from the teachers by means of written reports of teaching experience, questionnaire and daily informal talks. Students also took a diagnostic formative test (in Portuguese, ADeF) in order to have their linguistic performance assessed and we analized the notebooks of the best students in the classes, according to the teachers. We also planned and carried a language workshop with the students, which included linguistic and epilinguistic activities. Some results indicate that some of the difficulties teacher have in applying theory to practice are related to their schooling, not necessarily from their university undergraduation courses or continuing teacher education courses in which the theoretical knowledge is built. Strong evidence showed that the way we teach reproduce or is strongly influencced by the wahy we learn. We also xxx that the lack of ADef as an efficient practice is an important element that makes it difficult for teachers to decide to what to consider in the teachinglearning process.Moreover, it was possible to identify that ADeF is not an criteria used to form the groups. A teacher-researcher that aims to relate theory and practice should be prepared to face several challenges and create opportunities to children and youngsters, preparing them to deal with the daily uncertanties. This may mean how important new experiences will be to teacher and students in workshops that contain more efficient practices so that we can undo some of the knots from our past schooling or preliminary formatting