试论作为一种研究思路的结构方程模型

Structural equation modeling as a research approach

结构方程模型(SEM)是一种采用验证性研究路径分析某一现象结构理论的统计方法。近年来已逐步运用于外语教育的多个研究领域,但在实际应用中却存在明显误区,即SEM研究的设计方案多数是探索性分析。这既不同于国外学者的验证性研究取向,也违背了SEM重在验证性分析的基本原则。从方法论的高度审视SEM的实质,指出SEM不仅是一种非实验研究范式,更是一种极具价值的研究思路,即先理论后实证具有普适性的研究思路。此外,还从理论的基本特征出发,结合语言研究的具体案例探讨SEM的主要适用情况。

Structural equation modeling （SEM） is a statistical methodology that takes a confirmatory approach to the analysis of a structural theory bearing on some phenomenon. In recent years, SEM has been applied in various areas of foreign language education research in China, but in practice, the majority of Chinese scholars took an exploratory approach, rather than the confirmatory one adopted either by the researchers in the West or by SEM itself. Therefore, the present paper examines the nature of SEM from the perspective of methodology, pointing out that SEM is not only a paradigm for non -experimental research, but also a worthwhile re proach, known as the ＂theory - then - research＂ approach. In light of basic theoretical features, the discusses major scenarios using SEM illustrated by case study. search appaper also