Developing and Validating an Online Diagnostic Test of L۲ Pragmatic Competence: a Meaning-Oriented Model

Research on second language (L۲) pragmatics has predominantly focused on speech acts, leaving broader dimensions of pragmatic competence relatively unexplored. To address this gap, the present study developed and validated an Online Diagnostic Test of L۲ Pragmatic Competence (DTPC) informed by Purpura’s (۲۰۱۷) meaning-oriented model. Using a mixed-methods design, the researchers developed DTPC through several stages, including literature and expert review, a written discourse completion task (DCT), test construction, piloting, final administration, and follow-up interviews. Initially, a total of ۳۶۹ Iranian EFL learners were selected through purposive sampling to participate in the study. Following the proficiency test, the researchers excluded ۱۱ advanced learners to ensure sample homogeneity, and data from ۳۵۸ participants were retained for the final statistical analyses. After item screening and refinement, ۳۴ of the ۷۵ DTPC items were retained based on the results of item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis. The analyses confirmed a four-factor structure comprising sociolinguistic, sociocultural, psychological, and situational meanings, with high reliability and acceptable model fit. Sociolinguistic and psychological meanings showed the most decisive influence on learners’ pragmatic competence. Thematic analysis of interviews indicated learners’ positive perceptions of the DTPC’s diagnostic value and online delivery. The findings provide empirical validation of Purpura’s meaning-oriented model in the Iranian EFL context. In this context, the DTPC provides diagnostic insights into EFL learners’ pragmatic challenges, thereby supporting more targeted and responsive instruction.

کلیدواژه ها:

Meaning-Oriented Model ، Online Diagnostic Test of Pragmatic Competence (DTPC) ، Pragmatic Meaning ، Second Language Pragmatics