结构方程建模在我国外语界的使用——回顾与思考

Applications of Structural Equation Modeling in foreign language research in China——Review and reflection(1999-2010)

结构方程建模(Structural Equation Modeling,SEM)是一种建立、估计和检验变量间线性关系的多元统计技术。其在我国外语界的使用始于1999年。本文以1999到2010年间我国外语界发表的使用SEM进行研究的30篇论文为依据,以使用SEM进行研究的步骤为主线,对SEM在我国外语界的使用进行回顾和思考,重在探讨其显露出的问题,并在发挥理论先验性优势、尝试历时研究、拓展应用范围、结合其它统计技术等方面对SEM未来的发展作出展望,以期促进SEM在我国外语界的进一步推广与普及。

Structural Equation Modeling （SEM） is a multivariate statistical technique which is able to establish, estimate and test linear relationships among variables. Based on thirty papers employing SEM and published in the field of foreign language research in China from 1999, the first time SEM was applied there in the field, this paper reviews and reflects upon the applications of the technique, adopting a sequence in line with the steps in the conduct of SEM itself. The paper focuses on the problems and drawbacks of these applications and draw inferences for the future use of SEM, for instance： taking advantage of a priori theory-testing, attempting diachronic research, extending the field of SEM applications, and integrating its use with other statistical techniques. The paper may be expected to make a contribution to the popularization of SEM in foreign language research in China.