JALT2025 - Tokyo

Beyond Standardized Tests: Predictors of Graduate Writing Ability

Nov 1, 2025, 2:30 PM

30m

National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) Materials and Assessment Room 302

Speaker

Gavin O'Neill (Hitotsubashi Univeristy)

Description

For programs taught through English (e.g., EMI), TOEFL and IELTS scores or previous history of EMI study may not be sufficient for language instructors to identify which students may need writing support to meet program requirements for complex source-based writing tasks such as term papers or literature reviews. This study of 224 graduate students from over 50 countries explores what educational background factors can help instructors identify those who may need support.

Summary

For programs taught through English (e.g., EMI), TOEFL and IELTS scores or previous history of EMI study may not be sufficient for language instructors to identify which students may need writing support to meet program requirements for complex source-based writing tasks such as term papers or literature reviews. This study of 224 graduate students from over 50 countries explores what educational background factors can help instructors identify those who may need support.