Native speaker performance validity: In vain or for gain?

Abstract

This study explores the feasibility of native speaker performance criterion for validating tests for non-native speakers. The results of a cloze test administered to 202 Americans and 325 EFL learners are analysed and discussed. The study concludes with a discussion of cloze scoring and deletion start and the implications of the findings. Copyright © 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.