Technology and Language assessment

Summary

The video explores the role of technology in modern language assessment, emphasizing innovations in test security, test delivery, and scoring. It discusses methods like Iris recognition and keystroke logging to ensure test taker identity, while also highlighting the advantages of computer-based tests (CBTs), such as adaptive tests and multimedia integration. The video touches on advancements in speaking assessments through video conferencing and the role of computers in scoring writing and speaking tasks. With a look at the future, it suggests that technology will continue to evolve, bringing new solutions to language testing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Technology plays a crucial role in modern life, including in language assessment.
• 😀 Test security is essential in online language assessments, with techniques like Iris recognition and keystroke logging ensuring identity verification.
• 😀 Iris recognition is a secure method for identifying test-takers, as irises are unique and cannot be forged or stolen.
• 😀 Keystroke logging tracks typing patterns, ensuring that the person starting the test is the same person finishing it.
• 😀 Computer-adaptive tests adjust to the test taker's proficiency level, providing a more personalized and efficient testing experience.
• 😀 Non-adaptive computer-based tests offer significant advantages over traditional pencil and paper tests, such as multimedia integration and drag-and-drop techniques.
• 😀 Computer-based speaking tests are different from face-to-face tests, offering an alternative method of assessment but sometimes criticized for not assessing interactive speaking skills.
• 😀 New formats for computer-based speaking tests may include video conferencing, enabling more interactive assessments between test-takers and examiners.
• 😀 Computers can reliably score performance-based tests, but human scorers are still essential for assessing the context and meaning of writing and speaking responses.
• 😀 Some test providers, like the Pearson test of English, rely entirely on technology for scoring writing and speaking tasks, using advanced algorithms for assessment.

Q & A

What is one key use of technology in language assessment mentioned in the video?

One key use of technology in language assessment is ensuring test security, which includes verifying the identity of test takers using advanced methods like Iris recognition and keystroke logging.

How does Iris recognition help in test security?

Iris recognition helps ensure that the person taking the test is indeed the person they claim to be. Unlike ID cards or passports, irises cannot be stolen or forged, making this method highly secure.

What is keystroke logging and how does it contribute to test security?

Keystroke logging tracks how a person types during a test, including the speed and time taken between keystrokes. This method is unique to each individual and helps ensure that the same person who starts the test is the one who finishes it.

What is the advantage of computer adaptive tests over traditional tests?

Computer adaptive tests adapt the difficulty of questions based on the test taker's performance, ensuring that tasks are neither too easy nor too difficult. This reduces the overall test time and maintains motivation.

Why are computer adaptive tests less useful for assessing speaking and writing skills?

While computer adaptive tests are highly efficient in assessing certain skills, they are not ideal for measuring interactive skills like speaking and writing, as these skills often require human interaction and nuanced judgment.

What are some advantages of computer-based tests over pencil and paper tests?

Computer-based tests offer the flexibility of being taken anywhere and anytime, include unique question formats such as drag-and-drop for matching tasks, and allow the integration of multimedia, which can provide more authentic and relevant contexts.

How are speaking tests conducted in computer-based assessments?

In computer-based speaking tests, test takers respond to prompts provided by the computer, without human interaction. These tests assess some speaking skills well but are criticized for not measuring interactive speaking abilities.

What change might occur in computer-based speaking tests in the future?

Future computer-based speaking tests may incorporate video conferencing, allowing test takers and examiners to interact face-to-face, which has proven to be a popular and effective format in trials.

What is the role of technology in scoring writing and speaking tests?

Technology is used to score writing and speaking tests by evaluating measurable aspects like grammar, vocabulary, and fluency. However, human scorers are often involved to assess the content and meaning, as computers can't fully understand the sense of what is written or spoken.

Which language test provider uses entirely automated scoring for writing and speaking tests?

The Pearson Test of English is the exception, as it relies entirely on technology to score writing and speaking tests, without human involvement.