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[French version of TASTE (test for the ability and evaluation)]
A M Masson1, M Cadot, A M Pereira
1Université de Liège, rue de Meuse, 76-4020 Liège, Belgique.
L'Encephale
|February 28, 2002
Summary
This study validates the French translation of the Test for Ability to Study and Evaluation (TASTE) questionnaire, revealing five key factors of test anxiety in students. The findings confirm its multidimensional nature and clinical utility for identifying student profiles and potential psychopathology.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Psychometrics
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Test anxiety is a long-standing research area, with over 50 years of studies focusing on its impact on performance.
- Motivation, including intrinsic and extrinsic factors, self-efficacy, and attribution, significantly influences academic achievement.
- Existing questionnaires often fail to capture the multifaceted nature of test anxiety, linking theoretical constructs with clinical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the French translation of the Test for Ability to Study and Evaluation (TASTE) questionnaire.
- To assess the psychometric properties and factor structure of the French TASTE in a sample of university students.
- To explore the multidimensional aspects of test anxiety and its potential clinical implications.
Main Methods:
- A French version of the TASTE questionnaire (initially 121 items, reduced to 78) was administered to 617 first-year university students.
- Statistical analyses, including principal component analysis with Varimax rotation, were employed to determine the factor structure.
- Comprehension, back-translation, and test-retest reliability (n=33) were assessed to ensure validity and stability.
Main Results:
- Factor analysis identified five factors, confirming the original construction and revealing a significant fifth factor related to 'devalorisation' (negative self-perception).
- The French version demonstrated satisfactory internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha 0.82) and stability over time.
- A shortened 50-item version maintained high internal reliability and satisfactory correlations between factors, enhancing clinical utility.
Conclusions:
- The French TASTE questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the multidimensional nature of test anxiety in students.
- The identified five-factor structure, including the 'devalorisation' factor, offers valuable insights into student profiles and potential psychological distress.
- The validated short version of the TASTE is practical for clinical settings, aiding in the differentiation of student profiles and early identification of issues.
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