This paper looks at how practical concerns (e.g. the need to: obtain an adequate sample of discourse for assessment; to process large numbers of candidates; to ensure security and fairness) have shaped the format of speaking tests as used by the large, mainly-English, exam boards such as Cambridge ESOL, IELTS, TSE. It highlights the fact that test design must take into account the practicalities of running tests in real life situation: a major challenge now that such tests have become a global phenomenon and a major business in themselves. There is also discussion of the ways in which new methodologies and technologies may inform formats in the future.
Testing Spoken English in Real World Contexts: How Practical Considerations shape the form of ESOL speaking tests
CHRISTIANSEN, Thomas, Wulstan
2008-01-01
Abstract
This paper looks at how practical concerns (e.g. the need to: obtain an adequate sample of discourse for assessment; to process large numbers of candidates; to ensure security and fairness) have shaped the format of speaking tests as used by the large, mainly-English, exam boards such as Cambridge ESOL, IELTS, TSE. It highlights the fact that test design must take into account the practicalities of running tests in real life situation: a major challenge now that such tests have become a global phenomenon and a major business in themselves. There is also discussion of the ways in which new methodologies and technologies may inform formats in the future.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
