Re-examining Language Testing: A Philosophical and Social Inquiry

— —

Glenn Fulcher (University of Leicester, UK University of Leicester University of Sheffield, United Kingdom)

Re-examining Language Testing

A Philosophical and Social Inquiry

Glenn Fulcher (University of Leicester, UK University of Leicester University of Sheffield, United Kingdom)

$92.99

Paperback

Not in-store but you can order this
How long will it take?

Availability Information

We source books from suppliers in Australia and overseas. For books we don't currently have in stock, the time it takes to get them from our suppliers can vary widely - from a few days to a few months - so we check each book with each supplier to determine the expected time it will take to be supplied to us.

We then advise you accordingly. If the time taken to get any book is too long for you, you can let us know and we will cancel or adjust your order, and refund as required.

To find out the anticipated arrival time for specific items prior to ordering, please contact us by phone or email:

Phone +61 2 9264 3111, or 1800 4 BOOKS (1800 4 26657) if outside Sydney:
option 1 Abbey's Bookshop (Crime, History, Science, Kids & more) • info@abbeys.com.au
option 2 Language Book Centre (ESL & Foreign Languages) • language@abbeys.com.au
option 3 Galaxy Bookshop (Sci-fi, Fantasy, Romance, Graphic Novels) • sf@galaxybooks.com.au

QTY:

English

Routledge
12 June 2015

Bilingualism & multilingualism; Language teaching theory & methods; Philosophy & theory of education

Winner of the SAGE/ILTA Book Award 2016

Re-examining Language Testing explores ideas that form the foundations of language testing and assessment. The discussion is framed within the philosophical and social beliefs that have forged the practices endemic in language education and policy today.

From historical and cultural perspectives, Glenn Fulcher considers the evolution of language assessment, and contrasting claims made about the nature of language and human communication, how we acquire knowledge of language abilities, and the ethics of test use.

The book investigates why societies use tests, and the values that have driven changes in practice over time. The discussion is presented within an argument that an Enlightenment inspired view of human nature and advancement is most suited to a progressive, tolerant, and principled theory of language testing and validation.

Covering key topics such as measurement, validity, accountability and values, Re-examining Language Testing provides a unique and innovative analysis of the ideas and social forces that shape the practice of language testing. It is an essential read for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students of Applied Linguistics and Education. Professionals working in language testing and language teachers will also find this book invaluable.

By: Glenn Fulcher (University of Leicester UK University of Leicester University of Sheffield United Kingdom)
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm, Spine: 13mm
Weight: 346g
ISBN: 9781138774704
ISBN 10: 1138774707
Pages: 234
Publication Date: 12 June 2015
Audience: College/higher education , Primary , A / AS level
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Preface Inference Measurement Language Numbers Validity Meritocracy Values Epilogue References

Fulcher, Glenn

Reviews for Re-examining Language Testing: A Philosophical and Social Inquiry

The creation of the field of psychometrics set out to reduce the uncertainty of measuring human abilities but not to deal with the underlying philosophical problem. Now, in this pioneering rethinking of the fundamental questions involved, Fulcher has finally tackled the basic issues. There can be no question as to the importance of this book. Bernard Spolsky, Bar-Ilan University, Israel Fulcher's philosophical approach to language testing as a profession is both enlightening and thought provoking. It will present a major challenge for language testers in the years to come. Yan Jin, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China