The Writings of Lyle F. Bachman: Assuring that “What We Count Counts” in Language Assessment

Lyle F. Bachman is a well-known name in language assessment and applied linguistics, and his writings have greatly influenced the field. The Writings of Lyle F. Bachman is the first book to assemble his work into a single, comprehensive volume, covering topics such as validity and validation, test task characteristics, and epistemological issues. The collection traces how Bachman's ideas have evolved and provides an overview of the ongoing issues and debates in the field. It is useful for researchers and graduate students in these areas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 474 pages
Publication date: 17 July 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Lyle F. Bachman, a renowned figure in language assessment and applied linguistics, has left an indelible mark on the field through his extensive scholarly contributions. Over the past three decades, his prolific output has shaped the discipline and established him as a leading authority. Until now, Bachman's work had been scattered across various mediums, lacking a centralized repository.

The Writings of Lyle F. Bachman, a groundbreaking endeavor, is the first book to bring together Bachman's extensive body of work in a single, comprehensive volume. This meticulously curated collection comprises eight major sections, each preceded by an introduction by the editors, offering valuable context for the papers. The sections delve into some of the most intricate and critical topics in language assessment, including validity and validation, the impact of test task characteristics, the interplay between language testing and second language acquisition, and epistemological issues in applied linguistics.

The collection concludes with a state-of-the-art paper that provides a comprehensive overview of the field, while also offering insightful reflections on its current state and future directions. Throughout the book, the reader is taken on a journey as Bachman's ideas and research insights evolve, showcasing his intellectual growth and the profound impact he has had on the discipline.

What sets this collection apart is its ability to provide not only a compilation of Bachman's writings but also an insightful overview of the ongoing issues and debates within the field. It serves as a valuable resource for both researchers and graduate students seeking to deepen their understanding of language assessment and applied linguistics.

In conclusion, The Writings of Lyle F. Bachman is a landmark publication that celebrates the profound contributions of a visionary scholar. By assembling Bachman's work in a single volume, this book offers a comprehensive and accessible platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners to explore the intricacies of language assessment and applied linguistics. It is a testament to Bachman's enduring influence and a must-read for anyone interested in this field.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138788657