The C-Test: A Valid Measure to Test Second Language Proficiency?

Abstract

The C-Test is a gap-filling test belonging to the family of the reduced redundancy tests which is used as an overall measure of general language proficiency in a second or a native language. There is no consensus on the construct underlying the C-Test and many researchers are still puzzled by what is actually activated when examinees take a C-Test. The purpose of the present study is to cast light on this issue by examining the factors that contribute to C-Test item difficulty. A number of factors were selected and entered into regression model to predict item difficulty. Linear logistic test model was also used to support the results of regression analysis. Findings showed that the selected factors only explained 12 per cent of the variance in item difficulty estimates. Implications of the study for C-Test validity and application are discussed.