Profile: Issues in Teachers' Professional Development (Oct 2009)

Language Testing in Colombia: A Call for More Teacher Education and Teacher Training in Language Assessment

  • Alexis A. López Mendoza,
  • Ricardo Bernal Arandia

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 2
pp. 55 – 70

Abstract

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Classroom assessment is an integral part of the language learning process and a powerful informed decision-making tool. Unfortunately, not many language teachers in Colombia are trained to make assessment decisions that will engage and motivate students and, as a result, enhance learning. In this article, we present the results of a study that examines teachers' perceptions about language assessment and the way they use language assessments in their classroom. The findings suggest that there is a significant difference in the perceptions that teachers have depending on the level of training they have in language assessment. Thus, we highlight the importance of providing adequate training in language assessment for all prospective language teachers in Colombia.

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