Open science for language assessment research and practice in China: A response to Winke

Abstract

Winke delineates objectives and suggests a series of steps for the implementation of Open Science (OS) in language assessment. While we recognize the relevance and potential success of these concrete measures for OS in language assessment, the distinctive challenges confronting OS in China may prevent researchers and practitioners from fully capitalizing on them. In response to Winke, we first reflect on the significant challenges encountered by Chinese language assessment researchers and practitioners. These challenges include the absence of an ethos of openness in language assessment research and practice, difficulties in publishing in scholarly journals, including open-access (OA) journals, and the sensitive nature of the data involved in large-scale, high-stakes language testing. To address these issues and forge ahead, we propose a community-oriented, grassroots-driven approach to cultivating an OS culture and fortifying collaboration among stakeholders. We hope that, through concerted efforts, we can promote OS and, more importantly, enhance the quality of language assessment research and practice in China.