Introduction to ALTE and Key Concepts in Language Testing            

This workshop introduces you to key concepts and terminology in language assessment. It also provides an overview of ALTE and what kind of support and guidance we offer to our members, and what to expect from our conferences and events. 

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

After outlining the activities, committees and basic organisation of ALTE, the course focuses on basic assessment terminology and concepts in several key areas:

·       Welcome to ALTE: who we are and how we support members
·       The test development cycle & task and item design
·       Piloting, pre- and post-testing and analysis
·       External frameworks: The CEFR, and the socio-cognitive framework

Who is this course suitable for?

This workshop is intended for those individual or associate members who are new to ALTE, or new to assessment, or who are taking on an assessment focused role for the first time, or who have just joined a member organisation. No previous knowledge of assessment is required. This is an entry level workshop.

How is this course delivered?

This workshop is delivered online. It consists of bite-size introductory input, interactive discussions, and Q&A. The session will consist of four 1-hour sessions, with breaks in between.

Does this course require any specific software?

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

Who is the course 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.
Jane 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. 

When is the next course?

The date for the next Introduction to ALTE Course is 28 February 2025 at 11.00 (UK time).

How can I register?

You can register for the course here.

Expression of Interest

If you would like to express your interest in this course, or any other ALTE course, please click here.

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.