Can That Be Done? On Developing High-Stakes Summative Tests for Additional Formative Purposes

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Division H Section 3: Assessment in the Schools Poster Session 2

Abstract

Based on an expanded view of validity, this paper focuses on the collaborative development of high-stakes national tests of foreign languages, in an assessment system that has both summative and formative aims. Students’ and teachers’ views are systematically collected in large-scale pre-testing rounds and analysed with a multi-facetted research methodology. Results are used in creating information materials for formative use, composing tests and profiled reporting forms, and in setting standards. Examples are given of (1) studies of students’ views in relation individual characteristics and performances; (2) teachers’ opinions about the tests and reported use of results. A reflective description and evaluation is finally given of the development process in relation to the testing system as such.

Authors

• Gudrun Erickson, University of Gothenburg

• Monica Rosen, University of Gothenburg