The ‘Psychology’ of Polygraph’: Engendering Differential Salience - Concerns and Caveats

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Friedo Herbig
Keyword(s):  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Human Behaviour ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Test Procedures ◽  
Behaviour Modification ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Governing Body ◽  
Per Se ◽  
Emotional Salience ◽  
Polygraph Examination

The ‘success’ of a polygraph examination is predicated on the establishment of differential or emotional salience (a ‘psychological set’) with an examinee. This, according to polygraph proponents, guarantees that an examinee will respond appropriately during the administration of the in-test (questioning) phase of the polygraph examination. However, polygraph procedure, as prescribed by its governing body, the American Polygraph Association (APA), is a static clinical Westernised process that does not make any provision for human multiplicity (culture/ethnicity, idiosyncrasies, level of education, language proficiency, ideologies, and so forth). Identical (one size fits all) test procedures are applied across the board – a highly controversial methodology. This article, instead of rigidly focusing on validity and reliability issues per se, explores the degree to which certain intentional and unintentional human behaviour modification strategies have the potential to counterbalance claimed polygraph rectitude from a metaphysical and discursive standpoint. The article exposes concerns (potential flaws) relating to polygraph theory in the context of the ‘psychological set’ and is intended to serve as a caveat regarding the unmitigated use thereof. 

scholarly journals An investigation of the possibility of assessing general language proficiency and reading proficiency in English as a foreign language through scrambled-lettered texts

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 508
Author(s):  
José Herbet de Lavor Rolim ◽  
Ronaldo Mangueira Lima Júnior
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Reading Proficiency ◽  
Reading Test ◽  
Reading Scores ◽  
P Value ◽  
Complex Activity ◽  
Efl Learners ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Integrative Method

Reading Scrambled-Lettered Texts (SLT) is a complex activity, related to many factors, including language proficiency. This study investigates the possibility of using SLT as an integrative method to assess language and reading proficiency in English as a Foreign Language (EFL). A SLT reading test in English was applied to ten Brazilian EFL learners and the results were compared to their global and reading scores in the TOEFL ITP. Despite the limitation of the sample size, a negative correlation between the TOEFL scores and the number of errors in the SLT test was found. The results were significant in terms of p-value in four out of six cases and the presence of an outlier suggested an even higher correlation and relevance. A Portuguese SLT test was also applied to the sample, and the participants, who had a similar level of education, presented homogeneous results, contrasting with those found in the English test.

Pengaruh Tingkat Pendidikan, Pendapatan, Kesadaran Dan Pelayanan Terhadap Tingkat Motivasi Masyarakat Dalam Membayar Pajak Bumi Dan Bangunan

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 65-79
Author(s):  
Erlindawati Erlindawati ◽  
Rika Novianti
Keyword(s):  
Income Level ◽  
Education Level ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Level Of Service ◽  
Reliability Testing ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Analysis Technique ◽  
The Village ◽  
Multiple Analysis

This research aims to determine partially and simultaneously whether the level of education, level of income, level of awareness, and level of service affect community motivation in paying land and building taxes in the Village of Lemang, West Rangsang District, Meranti Islands Regency. The data analysis technique used is a quantitative analysis using validity and reliability testing, multiple analysis, classic assumption test, t-test, f-test, and coefficient of determination. The results of this research partially indicate that the level of education is positive and significant for community motivation. The level of income is positive and significant for community motivation. The level of awareness is positive and significant for community motivation and the level of service is negative and not significant for community motivation. Simultaneously the level of education, level of income, level of awareness and level of service significantly influence community motivation with a large influence of 71.3%.

Language testing and technology: problems of transition to a new era

ReCALL ◽  
2008 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 21-34 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patricia Dooey
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
English Language ◽  
Test Validity ◽  
Language Testing ◽  
English Language Proficiency ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Technological Advances ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Computer Based

AbstractTechnological advances have revolutionised methods of both teaching and testing in languages, and practitioners have eagerly embraced the opportunity to provide more innovative ways of doing this. The unique features offered by technology make it increasingly possible to test for a wide range of language skills required for a specific purpose. With the increasing need to test for English language proficiency and the importance placed on this facility, technology is being utilised to address issues of practicality, speed and efficiency. However, such advantages should not be embraced without due consideration for the essential qualities of any test; validity and reliability. With the inevitable shift towards computer-based testing, certain areas need special consideration. While computer-based tests can provide constructive diagnostic information to complement the language learning process, they should be used more selectively in other contexts, for example in high-stakes tests, examples of which are International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). These tests provide an assessment of English language proficiency, a key component of university admissions criteria. This paper examines a number of issues related to the design and application of computer-based tests, with particular reference to construct validity, computer familiarity and practicality. It is recommended that in the short term at least, test-takers be offered the choice of test medium in the interests of fairness and equity.

scholarly journals Communication and the Shaping of Human Personality; Deconstructing the Nature/Nurture Debate in Light of the Menace of Street Children in Nigeria

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-33 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kizito Ogedi Alakwe ◽  
Silk Ugwu Ogbu
Keyword(s):  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Street Children ◽  
Human Behaviour ◽  
Genetic Trait ◽  
Behaviour Modification ◽  
Human Personality ◽  
Critical Theories ◽  
The Social ◽  
Nature And Nurture

At the core of the knowledge inquiry about behavioural differences is the nature versus nurture debate which has been central to the development of various theories of human personality. The metaphor of a pendulum, swinging back and forth between nature and nurture, has been used to depict the opinion of scholars and practitioners in the social sciences and psychology in this debate. Nature / Nurture debate seeks to proffer answers to the following questions: why do people differ significantly in temperament, approach to challenges and level of intelligence even when they are siblings sharing from the same pool of genes? The debate also seeks to understand why people with different genetic trait behave alike within a group. How does our physical environment affect human behaviour and what role does communication play in the development of human personality? In the context of street children in Nigeria, should we attribute human personality to nature or nurture? These are issues this paper seeks to deconstruct. Methodologically, the paper examines critical theories of human personality and utilises a mix of review of relevant literature, comments and observations to discuss the role of communication in the formation of human personality. It concludes that though nature contributes towards human behaviour and personality, communication, which is the tool that drives socialisation, is central to the development of personality among the street children of Calabar. Thus, if communication can influence personality negatively, then the street children of Calabar have a chance of being rehabilitated through a different kind of communication aimed at behaviour modification.

scholarly journals The Relationship between Alexithymia and Attachment Styles among University Students

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (5) ◽  
pp. 104
Author(s):  
Lama M Qaisy ◽  
Muna A Abu darwish
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Family Size ◽  
Attachment Styles ◽  
Secure Attachment ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Avoidant Attachment ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Tas 20

The study aimed to investigate the relationship between Alexithymia (Alex) and attachment styles, gender, familysize, parent's level of education among a randomly selected sample of (392)undergraduate students (136 male, 256female), at Al-Hussein Bin Talal University. To achieve the objectives of this study, the twenty-item TorontoAlexithymia Scale (TAS-20), which was standardized by Dawoud (2016) and Yarmouk Attachment Scale developedby Abu Ghazal and Jaradat (2009) were applied, after verifying their validity and reliability. The results of the studyrevealed a significant negative correlations between Alex and secure attachment, while the correlations between Alexand avoidant attachment, and anxious-ambivalent attachment styles were positively significant. Also, there wassignificant positive correlation between Alex with gender and family size. Finally; no significant correlations werefound between Alex with parent’s education. 

A Five-Factor Framework for Conceptualizing Human Behaviour Change: Old Wine in Newly Arranged Casks

1984 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 18-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Geoffrey N. Molloy
Keyword(s):  
Complex System ◽  
Human Learning ◽  
Human Behaviour ◽  
Abc Model ◽  
Behaviour Modification ◽  
Testing Hypotheses ◽  
Integrative Framework ◽  
Cognitive Behaviour ◽  
Heuristic Device ◽  
The Times

This paper presents an integrative framework or notional model for conceptualizing human learning which recognizes both environmental and internal or mediating determinants of behaviour. In line with the spirit of the times, the model accommodates the more traditional antecedents-behaviour-consequences (ABC) model with the rapidly emerging cognitive behaviour modification and psychophysiological literature. The five casks or boxes represent a dynamic interdepenent system elements. It is intended as a heuristic device for formulating and testing hypotheses, and as a reminder that apart from simple habits and reactions, human theses, and as a reminder that apart from simple habits and reactions, human behaviour is multiply determined, a product of interacting elements in a complex system.

The Concept of Lunacy: A Review

1978 ◽  
Vol 42 (3) ◽  
pp. 891-897 ◽  
Author(s):  
Donna J. Cooke ◽  
E. M. Coles
Keyword(s):  
Critical Review ◽  
Human Behaviour ◽  
Future Research ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Historical Account ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Phases Of The Moon

A historical account of the concept of lunacy in terms of its symptomatology and aetiological models, and a critical review of its validity and reliability are given. It is concluded that there is no unequivocal support for a belief in a lunar influence on human behaviour and that any future research should be directed towards the specification of the behaviour and people that might be affected by the phases of the moon.

Factors in language learning after 40: Insights from a longitudinal study

2019 ◽  
Vol 57 (2) ◽  
pp. 181-204 ◽  
Author(s):  
Olga Kozar ◽  
Lynda Yates
Keyword(s):  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Initial Level ◽  
Common Factor ◽  
Learning Gains ◽  
Language Learning Strategies ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Per Se ◽  
Learning Progress

AbstractThis study seeks to identify differences in language learning progress and experiences among 24 adult migrants, who arrived to Australia after the age of 40. The results suggest that age per se was not a reliable predictor of language learning progress. Instead, the initial English level of participants when they arrived to Australia, opportunities to use English and prior level of education were associated with considerable language learning gains. For example, participants who had a higher initial English level were able to find jobs that required them to perform a range of oral and written tasks across different domain, which further improved their level, while participants who had a low initial level were mostly unemployed. Another common factor we noted among participants with high and reasonable gains but not among those who made little progress was a proactive attitude and the use of a range of language learning strategies beyond the classroom. The study also revealed differences in age construal among participants with high and reasonable gains and those who did not improve.

scholarly journals Validation of the Speeded Cloze-Elide Test as an Overall Measure of Proficiency in English as a Foreign Language

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ali Akbar Boori ◽  
Samaneh Zarei
Keyword(s):  
Reading Comprehension ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Test Validity ◽  
Multiple Choice ◽  
Principal Component ◽  
Test Reliability ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
English Students ◽  
Time Limitations ◽  
Cloze Test

<p>In this study, the cloze-elide test was developed and administered under time constraints. This research is aimed to examine the validity and reliability of the speeded cloze-elide test and investigate its relationship with reading comprehension, C-Test, and multiple-choice cloze test. Processing speed is a vital indicator to distinguish high to low levels of language proficiency. The obtained test scores of the test takers' performance in the restricted time reveal their level of overall language proficiency. One-hundred fifty Iranian undergraduate English students were selected to participate in this study. A reading comprehension test, C-tests, multiple-choice cloze tests and speeded cloze-elide tests were presented to the students. The Cronbach's alpha reliability revealed that speeded cloze-elide test is highly reliable. Moreover, the principal component analysis resulted in the presence of one component which supports the unidimensionality of the data. The findings also illustrated that the C-Test is a slightly better measure of reading comprehension than multiple-choice cloze test and speeded cloze-elide test. Based on the analysis of data, time limitations increase the test validity and test reliability on the cloze-elide test.</p>

scholarly journals Depression, anxiety and stress and their associated social determinants in the Saudi college students

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shamim Mohammad ◽  
Ibrahim Waleed Almakran ◽  
Ahmad Saleh Al-Montashri ◽  
Ammar Mohammed Mursi ◽  
Saleh Mohammed Alharbi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Social Determinants ◽  
Anxiety And Depression ◽  
Test Procedures ◽  
Level Of Education ◽  
Low Level ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Stress Levels ◽  
High Level ◽  
Married Students

Globally, students suffer from stress, anxiety, and depression in higher education and seek counselling since education process has negative impacts on mental health of some students. This study was aimed at measuring the depression, stress, and anxiety and their associated social determinants like (income, education, residence, marital status, and educational difficulties) in undergraduate students of Umm Al-Qura University (UQU). Arabic version of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) validated from the original English version instrument by Lovibond and Lovibond (1995) was used; A sample of 373 respondents through clustered sampling was drawn from the five randomly chosen faculties of the University. Data was analyzed by running ANOVA and t-test procedures in SPSS software. The study found that the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in the students was 30%, 60%, and 50% respectively. A statistically significant difference was found in the stress levels of students of different colleges (p=0.000). Students’ stress levels were significantly higher (p=0.000) in the Applied Medical Sciences and in the final year students (p=0.015). Significantly high levels of depression (p=0.000), anxiety (p=0.000), and stress (p=0.000) were found in the students belonging to the poor economic strata. Depression (p=0.038), Anxiety (p=0.022), and stress (p=0.001) were statistically high in the students whose father had a low level of education. Statistically high level (p=0.028) of stress was also found in the students whose mothers had a low level of education. Students who reported educational difficulties had significantly (p=0.001) high levels depression. However, the results of stress, anxiety, and depression in married students and the location of the students’ variables were not found statistically significant. The findings may be useful for informed policymaking in the higher learning institutions and initiation of counseling provisions in the concerned faculties for the distressed students with a view to enhancing their educational outcomes.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document