Using Standards and Guidelines

Abstract

This chapter discusses the notion of standards in the context of educational assessment and focuses in particular on applications to language testing. Starting with a definition of what is meant by a “standard,” it covers notions such as accountability and social responsibility. Assessment systems need to be based on ethical principles; and organizations, in their responsibility for developing and validating language assessment, must be able to implement effective procedures to meet their obligations in practice. Appropriate standards and guidelines address these concerns by guiding professional practices and improving the management of assessment cycles. Examples of standards for both educational assessment and language testing are discussed. The application of quality management systems (QMS) is also discussed, and a case is made for adopting this approach in setting professional standards. Quality management principles and guidelines based on quality control and quality assurance procedures contribute to the efficiency of assessment processes and provide evidence needed in developing a validity argument.