Course Syllabus

TESL 2300 Testing and Evaluation

Course Description

In order for teachers to be successful, the ability to construct effective assessments is vital. This course familiarizes potential teachers of languages with theory and techniques in the construction, analysis, use, and interpretation of second language assessment. It also introduces useful techniques of teacher self-evaluation.

Justification

In order for teachers to be successful, the ability to construct effective assessments is vital. This course is designed to provide basic competence in this area of language teaching. This course is required for completion of the Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language. This course will most likely transfer as an elective credit.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will be able to create language tests that will effectively measure second language proficiency in various skill areas.
2. Students will develop self-evaluative abilities to assess testing and teaching.

Course Content

Test types and formats (e.g., aptitude/placement, diagnostic, criterion vs. norm reference).Creating tests for the four skill areas of language (speaking, listening, reading, writing).Other testing instruments for language instruction (oral interviews, self-evaluations, portfolios).Washback effect of tests on teaching.Evaluating the effectiveness of tests.TESL theory and application are intrinsically and implicitly invested in the plurality of language learning communities and styles, and in engaging deliberately with uniqueness and difference in the language classroom.