This course provides an overview of standard setting and how it fits into the process of aligning tests to an external framework, such as the CEFR. It introduces key terminology and concepts related to standard setting, and an overview of the main components of standard setting, and commonly used methods.  

What knowledge and/or skills will I gain from this course? 

The ALTE Standard Setting course covers the following: 

• How standard setting relates to aligning your test to a language proficiency framework 

• What terminology and concepts are essential to know  

• Which standard setting methods are commonly used in language testing  

• Key decisions for institutions engaged in standard setting 

Who is this course suitable for? 

No previous knowledge of standard setting is required or assumed. The course is suitable for people who are new to standard setting and need to have an overview of the basics. It is suitable for someone who is new to this work in their institution, or who would like to gain experience as a participant in a standard setting panel. 

Can I run standard setting for my institution after attending this course? 

This course is an introduction to the basic concepts, it will enable participants with no experience to work alongside a more experienced colleague. The ALTE Services Unit offer an additional course in setting up and running standard setting. Please contact the ALTE Services Unit for details: servicesunit@alte.org 

How is this course delivered? 

This workshop is delivered online. It consists of interactive meetings with the whole group, small breakout sessions, bite-size introductory input, individual study tasks, group discussions, and interactive Q&A. It is not necessary to prepare for the tasks in advance, but these will be made available for those who may want to review the content or language. The session will last between 3-4 hours and will include a 30-minute break. 

Does this course require and specific software? 

This course does not require any specific software, but it is a paper-free ‘green’ course, and all material will be delivered/shared online. You will need your own laptop. 

Who is the tutor? 

The course will be presented by Jane Lloyd (Cambridge University Press and Assessment). Jane is Senior Research Manager at Cambridge English. Her main responsibilities are leading on standard setting for Cambridge exams, working on large-scale educational reform projects with ministries and NGOs, and working for ALTE. Her work for ALTE is to support other national language test providers. This includes: statistical analysis of items, analysis of rater performance, research into exam and language use at regional and national level, courses and training in assessment, preparation for audits, and training for item writers, test designers and raters. She has a degree in Linguistics, a DELTA, an MA in Linguistics and TESOL, and an MA in Language Testing. She is currently studying for a PhD in Language Testing at CRELLA.  

Can several people from the same organisation join this course? 

For group bookings, ALTE advises to book a maximum of three places per organisation.  

How can I pay?
Full payment is required on registration. We strongly recommend that payment is made online using a Visa, MasterCard or American Express. However, if it is not possible to pay with a credit/debit card when registering, please contact the ALTE Services Unit (servicesunit@alte.org) to request an invoice with bank transfer payment instructions.

Use of Personal Data Disclaimer

I agree that by clicking 'Register', the personal data I include in the registration form may be used and held by ALTE staff only for the purposes related to the organisation of the ALTE Introductory course in language testing course.