Journal of the National Council of Less Commonly Taught Languages (Aug 2010)

Development of a Computer-Based Workshop to Foster Language Assessment Literacy

  • Katherine Riestenberg ,
  • Francesca Di Silvio ,
  • Anne Donovan ,
  • Margaret E. Malone

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9
pp. 21 – 42

Abstract

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This article describes the development of a computer-based, self-access resource designed to increase foundational assessment knowledge among instructors of less commonly taught languages (LCTLs). The article begins with a review of the need for the project, describing the importance of assessment literacy for educators particularly within the LCTL context. Next it discusses a technology-based approach to providing LCTL educators with professional development materials designed to foster such assessment literacy. Specifically, it describes a downloadable workshop called Assessment for Language Instructors: The Basics, created for instructors and administrators of the STARTALK program, a federal initiative to provide summer LCTL programs for K-16 students along with professional development for instructors of these languages. The article provides a case study of this project, describing the workshop objectives, development methodology,content, and learner outcomes. Finally, challenges associated with the project and ways to address these challenges are presented.

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