How to Test Speaking Skills in Japan

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Chapter 2: Embrace testing

then have your colleague do the same in order to compare notes This methodology would probably produce incredibly reliable and valid results, but at what cost? Nation (2013) identifies the follow ing characteristics of a highly practical exam: • Easy to make and mark • Easy for students to interpret Since we are all so busy, these are very important considerations to keep in mind As Bailey (1998) reminds us, the main purpose for assessing language is to help us gain critical information about our students’ abilities and progress in ways that are conducive to learn ing However, if our tests take too much time to make and adminis ter, if they are difficult for the students to understand, or if they take you weeks to mark, then they are of little use It’s not necessary to work yourself to the bone in order to as sess your students’ speaking ability well When you design your tests, keep practicality in the front of your mind If it’s all just too hard, then you’re not as likely to do it well, let alone at all The test ideas presented in Part 3 were developed with practicality in mind, if for no other reason than you are more likely to try them! Find the right balance In the end, your main challenge when evaluating a test is to find the right balance between the “big three” concepts of reliability, validity, and practicality Taken together, they provide a clear and useful rubric for reflecting on the quality of your assessment activ ities One challenge you’ll face, no doubt, is the constant push and pull between them If you emphasize one principle, it will often • Not expensive to produce • Fits within available time