Response Times and Accuracy in Lexical Decision Task: Focusing on LexTALE-Kr

This study investigates the validity of lexical decision times as a measure for estimating learners’ language proficiency. Using LexTALE-Kr (Son et al., 2022), a Korean vocabulary assessment tool, we examined the extent to which lexical decision times can distinguish between Korean learners and native Korean speakers, and how these times relate to accuracy rates. Our findings indicate that lexical decision times are a robust measure of learners’ Korean ability. First, lexical decision times effectively differentiate Korean learners from native speakers, as well as intermediate-level learners from advanced-level learners. Second, lexical decision times decreased linearly as lexical frequency increased, with higher-frequency words being processed more rapidly. This correlation was stronger in the learner groups compared to the native group. Finally, a negative correlation emerged between lexical decision times and accuracy rates, with higher accuracy rates associated with shorter decision times. Overall, our results support the use of lexical decision times as a valid measure for assessing learners’ linguistic proficiency.