English as an international language perception scale: Development, validation, and application

The issue of English as an international language (EIL) perception has received considerable attention among EIL researchers and practitioners. However, several studies in the EIL perception have not provided validity and reliability information pertaining to the instrument (e.g. a questionnaire), which may have affected the accuracy and interpretation of data. Further, there is currently no validated EIL Perception Scale (EILPS) that EIL researchers and practitioners can utilize in an accessible manner. To address these concerns, this study develops EILPS that is theoretically underpinned and empirically validated through Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses with two large samples of Korean EFL students (N = 277, N=278). Results provide support for a four-factor solution that encompasses 1) Current Status of English (CSE); 2) Varieties of English (VE); 3) Strategies for Multilingual/Multicultural Communication (SMC); and 4) English Speakers’ Identity (ESI). This study contributes to helping EIL researchers and practitioners employ a validated instrument for measuring EIL perception in an approachable fashion and, ultimately, allowing generalization across settings. Research and pedagogical recommendations — e.g. how EILPS can be applied in research and practice settings — are also made. Copyright © 2018 慶應義塾大學日吉紀要刊行委員會.