Real-Time Automated Feedback in Computer-Adaptive Speaking Tests: Effects on Performance and Anxiety.
Abstract
The fast development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of language testing has led to the development of computer-adaptive speaking tests (CASTs) that can provide real-time automated feedback. Although it has been proven in past that automated scoring and adaptive sequencing are viable, little has been done regarding the psychological and performance implications of providing instant machine-generated feedback in speaking evaluations. The article is a study, which was conducted under the perceptual model and simulated data, of the effects of automated feedback in real-time on the performance of test takers, cognitive load and anxiety in CAST environments. It is a simulated quasi-experimental design of 240 hypothetical tertiary-level English learners in three conditions: real-time, delayed and no feedback. The simulated results indicate that the size of the difference in pronunciation, fluency, and discourse-level performance (p < .05) could be large with the use of automated real-time feedback, in addition to the possible reduction of state anxiety assessed by the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS). However, simulated improvements depend on the level of proficient learners, when they obtain feedback, and their anxiety profiles. Examples of implications on validity, fairness, optimizing machine-learning, and ethical implementation of real-time feedback in CASTs are addressed. The author concludes the paper by giving recommendations on the way AI-based feedback schemes can be used to administer high-stakes speaking tests without compromising test integrity.
Keywords
Automated Feedback, , Computer-Adaptive Speaking, , Performance, , Anxiety
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