Validating a test of L2 routine formulae to detect pragmatics learning in stay abroad

Abstract

There has long been interest in the effect of stay abroad on pragmatic development in second language (L2) pragmatics research. However, few testing instruments exist to assess pragmatics learning in stay abroad and provide information about learners' development to help institutions evaluate the success of stay abroad programs. In this study, we describe the adaptation and validation of Roever's (2005) test of second language routine formulae to be used large-scale with Japanese stay-abroad learners. We follow Kane's (2006) argument-based approach to validation, evaluating the first four inferences: Domain description, Evaluation, Generalization, and Explanation. We also investigate the tes..