语言测试中的多项选择题型

The multiple-choice format in language testing

多项选择题型在语言测试领域中争议颇多，本文旨在全面、客观地展现其全貌，以加深读者对它的认识。文章首先追溯该题型最初创立于心理测试、后在语言测试中也得到广泛应用的发展历程；随后指出该题型规定受试期望反应类型为选择型的本质，列举它与其他题型的结合形式；其次详尽分析该题型在信度、效度、教学后效、实用性等方面的潜在优势和弱点；最后就科学使用该题型提出一系列建议。

This paper presents objectively a complete picture of the multiple choice test format, which is a controversy in the discipline of language testing. Firstly, the development of this format is traced from its origin in psychological testing to its popularity in language testing. Secondly, the nature of this format as the specification of the selective response type of test items is illustrated with a description of its various forms resulted from its combination with a variety of other test methods. Thirdly, its potential advantages and disadvantages are analyzed with respect to its reliability, validity, backwash and practicality. Lastly, suggestions are proposed about the scientific use of this test format.