Validation of Spoken Language Assessments for Adult L2 Learners

Abstract

Assessments of second language speaking are used for a range of purposes, from assigning grades in language courses to certifying qualifications for employment and assessing readiness for university study. The types of validation efforts undertaken across language assessment contexts are equally wide-ranging. This chapter introduces the validation practices used to evaluate the degree to which interpretations and uses of test scores are justified in particular contexts. The types of validation practices are tied to the types of inferences that are made when tests of spoken language are used as well as the need to present empirical evidence and theoretical rationales to support the inferences.