[Episode 10] Connecting the Dots: The Role of Language Assessment in Validating Students' Progress and Proficiency

Summary

Jennifer Dobberfuhl Quinlan, Associate Director of Assessment Product Management at Language Testing International (LTI) discusses the growing importance of multilingualism in the workforce and how world language educators can advocate for their programs amidst budget cuts by highlighting the economic and cultural benefits of language skills. She emphasizes the role of language assessment in validating students' progress and proficiency, noting that fluctuations in test scores can be part of normal developmental processes. Quinlan also addresses the need for equitable access to language testing and the importance of considering diverse language needs in educational assessments. The conversation also focuses on how official language certifications, like those from ACTFL, are becoming increasingly valuable in connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction

01:27

Importance of Multilingual Workers

03:56

Advocating for World Language Programs

07:48

The Benefits of Language Learning for Students

11:10

The Role of Language Testing

15:25

Understanding U-Shaped Learning Patterns

22:30

Impact of the Revised ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines

27:17

Equitable Access in Language Testing

34:42

The Future of Language Education and Assessments

36:50

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Resources

Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast