Technological Growth and L2 Construct Definition: Will Applied Linguistics Keep Pace with Language Users?

Abstract

Chapelle (2003) coined the phrase “tunnel of efficiency” to describe what she considers a truncation of vision on the part of applied linguists who have studied technological innovations in L2 assessment. This nearsightedness, she argues, has led to an overemphasis of research that serves immediate practical considerations, i.e., faster, more efficient delivery and scoring of traditional tests. Underemphasized is the question of how the rapidly advancing availability and widespread use of new technology can or should change L2 constructs. To maintain the relevance of our field and coherently evaluate the validity of L2 assessment use arguments, we must pay attention to these questions.