Assessing Speaking in Context

A refreshingly provocative collection challenging traditional large-scale approaches to oral language assessment. A convincing case is made for how assessment of interactive communication requires small-scale efforts. The volume concludes that the assessment of interactive communication in all its sociolinguistic grandeur requires new approaches to test construction and ratings, as well as revised thinking as to how results are to be utilized. * Andrew D. Cohen, Professor Emeritus, University of Minnesota, USA *
This exciting collection of diverse perspectives from leading experts in L2 speaking assessment consolidates new thinking on the construct of interactional competence. Tackling the theoretical and practical implications of embracing a broader speaking construct, it is essential reading for researchers and practitioners in classroom or large-scale testing contexts. * Sally O’Hagan, University of Melbourne, Australia *

...the book offers much of value to readers who recognise the importance of developing interactional competence for second language learners, including students who need English for academic purposes. It will be of greater interest to researchers and practitioners who have a commitment to assessing this component of communicative competence, especially when the EAP students they work with need to acquire professional skills in oral interaction to a high degree, such as majors in business, law and the health sciences.

-- John Read, University of Auckland, New Zealand * Journal of English for Academic Purposes 55 (2022) *

...this volume contributes to the literature by focusing on both established and new speaking test instruments and presenting cutting-edge research with fine-grained analysis, thus serving as illuminating and inspiring cases for future investigation.

-- Ying Chen and Qi Lu Ocean, University of China * Papers in Language Testing and Assessment Vol. 10, Issue 2, 2021 *