Foundations in Language Testing and Assessment 2011
Date: 19 November, 2011
Location: Rooms SR 322, SR 324, Third Floor, Ken Edwards Building, University of Leicester
Event type: Practitioner Workshop
EVENT TIMINGS : 10.00 - 17.00
Practitioner : Glenn Fulcher, Dr Julie Norton and Wasyl Cajkler (University of Leicester)
The workshop will explore assessment techniques along the following lines:
Concepts
An introduction to the main concepts in language testing and assessment in which participants will discuss validity, reliability, and the purposes for which we assess. Participants will develop an understanding of how key concepts might impact on their assessment work, particularly with reference to the definition of what is to be assessed, and how it is described.
Assessments
Effective formative assessment helps students to develop sociolinguistic, discourse and strategic competences, and acquire cultural knowledge that enhances communication. This session explores the relationship between teaching and learning, including the role of self- and peer-assessment within the learning environment.
Discourses
Speaking is often the most valued skill that a second language learner can develop, and evaluating this ability is frequently considered to be difficult because of the fleeting nature of spoken communication. This session considers communicative approaches to assessing speaking, focusing on task types, the learner discourse that they elicit, and cultural issues in topic selection.
Architectures
Language professionals are frequently asked to construct assessments, evaluate tests, or align tests to external standards. This session explores the notion of ‘test architecture’ by looking at the role of models, frameworks and specifications and their role in test design and evaluation. Particular attention will be paid to national and cross-border models which play a role in the development of language policies.
Discussion
Participants will be given the opportunity to talk about issues that emerged during the day or question the presenters in open session.
Fees
- There is a charge of £125 to attend this event.
- Please note that we reserve the right to retain the fee of £125 if you do not notify us by Friday 11 November 2011 that you are unable to attend.
- Full details of our charging policy are available.
- Lunch will be provided.
| Time | Session | |
|---|---|---|
| 10.00 - 10.30 | Coffee | |
| 10.30 - 11.30 | Concepts | |
| 11.30 - 11.45 | Break | |
| 11.45 - 12.45 | Assessments | |
| 12.45 - 13.45 | Lunch | |
| 13.45 - 14.45 | Discourses | |
| 14.45 - 15.00 | Break | |
| 15.00 - 16.00 | Architectures | |
| 16.00 - 17.00 | Discussion | |
| 17.00 | Farewell |
