Introduction to 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. 

Testimonial

“The course ‘Introduction to ALTE’ not only provides general information about the association (organisation, services, resources, events, membership, project groups...) but also clearly and synthetically presents essential concepts about the test development cycle, tasks and item design (key concepts, key stages, challenges, strategies...). It was very useful for me because I am developing a doctoral thesis on the diagnostic assessment of language proficiency (Portugal).”

When are the next courses?

The date for the next Introduction to Key Concepts in Language Testing course is 5 November 2025.

How can I register?

Register for the 5 November 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.

Course Terms and Conditions

1. Attendance

• Participants must attend at least 80% of live sessions to receive a Certificate of Completion.
• Attendance will be recorded for each session.
• Those who do not meet the attendance requirement will not be eligible for the certificate.
• Missed sessions may be made up in a later edition of the course, subject to availability and the organiser’s approval.

2. Recordings and Course Materials

• Recording, copying or sharing any part of the live sessions is not permitted.
• All course materials, including slides, recordings and handouts, are the property of the course organiser and are provided for personal educational use only.
• Materials may not be shared, reproduced or distributed without permission.

3. Technology and Course Changes

• Participants are responsible for ensuring they have a reliable internet connection and appropriate technology to join the sessions.
• The course organiser may make reasonable changes to the schedule, content or tutors if necessary, and will communicate any updates in advance.

4. Agreement

By enrolling on and participating in this course, you confirm that you have read and agree to these Terms and Conditions.