Research Articles

Assessing language learning in virtual exchange: suggestions from the field of language assessment

Authors

  • Jiyoon Lee University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA
  • Shannon Sauro University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21827/jve.4.36087

Keywords:

language assessment for VE, curriculum-based assessment, curriculum-free assessment, self-assessment, peer-assessment

Abstract

This goal of this paper is to enhance VE practitioners’ language assessment literacy. To do so, it begins with an overview of assessment practices commonly used in VE for evaluating the complex and multifaceted nature of language competence. These include the following: (1) approaches that evaluate change in learners’ language use over time, (2) approaches that employ pre- and posttest to evaluate learning outcomes, and (3) approaches that rely on student self-report or self-documentation of learning.  Based on this overview, we then look to the field of language assessment for guidelines on the selection and use of classroom-based and standardized assessment tools and practices. Using an existing VE practice scenario, the authors provide an example of language assessment selection and development.

Author Biographies

Jiyoon Lee, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA

Jiyoon Lee is a researcher and teacher educator in the TESOL program in the Department of Education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA.  She conducts research on classroom-based assessment, education stakeholders’ language assessment literacy, and cross-discipline teacher-education.  She teaches graduate-level courses on language assessment and linguistics. 

Shannon Sauro, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA

Shannon Sauro is a researcher and teacher trainer in the TESOL program in the Department of Education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA.  Her research focuses on the intersection of online fan practices and language learning and teaching, and the role of virtual exchange/telecollaboration in language teacher education.

 

Published

2021-04-23

Issue

Vol. 4 (2021)

Section

Research Articles

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