LG504-7-SP-CO:
Language Testing and Assessment
2023/24
Language and Linguistics
Colchester Campus
Spring
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Monday 15 January 2024
Friday 22 March 2024
15
18 December 2023
Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
MA Q11012 Applied Linguistics,
MA Q110JS Applied Linguistics,
MA QX1312 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL),
MA QX13JS Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
This module focuses on how language testing and assessment have developed in educational settings by looking at the types and purposes of tests and the processes involved in test design and administration. It also considers high-stakes testing and language exams. Additionally, the module covers fundamental concepts and principles of language testing and the theoretical foundations and practical implications of testing language skills within general English and English for Specific/Academic Purposes (ESP/EAP).
• To familiarise students with basic concepts, issues, and methods in language testing and assessment
• To raise awareness of how language skills and sub-skills are assessed
• To introduce different types of tests and testing procedures
• To develop skills for designing and developing test items/tasks
• To explore recent trends in testing, including the use of technology
• To provide opportunities for students to review and evaluate internationally recognised tests
By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:
• define the nature of the construct they wish to measure
• select appropriate test type and test methods in line with the specification
• identify the distinguishing characteristics of a range of different types of tests
• indicate the major issues and principles involved in the development of a test
• design reliable and valid tests to meet a specified need
• evaluate language tests and assessment processes for their professional needs
This module is made up of 10 one-hour lectures and 10 one-hour seminar slots. The lectures are designed to cover the different content for each week with the seminars designed to be more practical. These practical sessions will provide opportunities to explore and work with the approaches/methods/tools covered in the lectures.
All learning materials (e.g., PowerPoint slides, videos, weblinks, handouts, etc.) will be uploaded in advance.
The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course.
The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students.
Further reading can be obtained from this module's
reading list.
Assessment items, weightings and deadlines
| Coursework / exam |
Description |
Deadline |
Coursework weighting |
| Coursework |
Essay (2500 Words) |
|
100% |
Additional coursework information
N/A
Exam format definitions
- Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
- In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary,
for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.
Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.
Overall assessment
Reassessment
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Neophytos Mitsigkas, email: nmitsi@essex.ac.uk.
Neophytos Mitsigkas
nmitsi@essex.ac.uk
Yes
No
Yes
Dr Vivienne Esther Rogers
Available via Moodle
Of 20 hours, 20 (100%) hours available to students:
0 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s), module, or event type.
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