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Measured constructs: a history of Cambridge English language examinations 1913 - 2012

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Open access

Abstract

In recent years assessment issues have assumed increased importance in the economic, educational and socio-political affairs of society. Spolsky (2008:297) argues that ‘testing has become big business’, and Shohamy (2008:xiv) points to ‘the societal role that language tests perform, the power that they hold, and their central functions in education, politics and society’. A significant role for testing language proficiency can be seen inter alia in migration and citizenship policy and practice, the professional registration of those involved in the provision of health care, appointment and promotion in business, industry and commerce, the certification of air traffic and maritime personnel, and entry to tertiary level education. Such uses testify to the critical function that language assessment now fulfils in contemporary society.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 2-10

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Cambridge ESOL: Research Notes (Volume 51)

Publication milestones

  • Published - 01/02/2013

Publication status

Published - 01/02/2013

ISSN

1756-509x

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/338117

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