Testing in ELT

Language assessment is first placed in the broader context of knowledge assessment. Students are then made acquainted with the importance and uses of language tests in schools and other institutions. Through analysis of specific examples of EFL tests, the qualities of objective and effective language tests are shown. The testing of individual language skills is dealt with separately (lexis, grammar, the four skills, sociolinguistic competence). The term testing is compared with the terms evaluation, assessment and feedback. The course also considers the effect of the grade on the testee, and the effect of testing on the learner's process of language acquisition. Students become familiar with authentic and alternative means of assessment such as self-assessment and portfolios.