Evaluating DLAB as a Predictor of Foreign Language Learning
Abstract
This report evaluates the relationship between language learning aptitude and foreign language proficiency in the U.S. Army Special Operations Forces (ARSOF) community. The Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) is an assessment of language learning aptitude that is widely used in the ARSOF community for the purposes of selection and language training placement. This report includes two studies: Study 1 documents the relationship between DLAB scores and foreign language proficiency attainment during initial acquisition training (IAT) at the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWCS); Study 2 shows the relationship between DLAB scores and foreign language proficiency attainment over the duration of an ARSOF operator's career. The findings of Study 1 indicate that DLAB scores are predictive of the level of speaking proficiency trainees attain during IAT. Trainees with higher DLAB scores were more likely to attain higher speaking proficiency than lower DLAB trainees. Study 2 findings indicate that DLAB scores are predictive of the maximum proficiency ARSOF operators attain over the duration of their careers. Operators with higher DLAB scores tend to attain higher levels of proficiency than those with lower DLAB scores. These findings will help inform the use of DLAB scores for IAT language placement.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA585073