16/03/2021
Language assessment experts from across Europe will come together to discuss the challenges that Covid-19 has posed to their sector. The ALTE International Digital Symposium 2021 will address key themes relevant to safeguarding the future of multilingual language assessment in and after the Covid era. The online event will use the latest VR technology to give delegates an interactive and engaging conference experience.
Language assessment experts from around Europe will discuss hot topics in language teaching, learning and assessment, including how cutting-edge technologies are contributing to the sector with discussions on online testing, auto-marking, video call tests, remote proctoring, eye-tracking and gamification. Other key issues on the agenda will include the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), social justice, migration and data protection.
The event will run from 28-30 April 2021, and the high-tech VR platform will allow delegates to explore a virtual world and interact and engage with each other as avatars. The interactive workshops, plenary talks and presentations will highlight emerging trends in language assessment such as the need for more personalised learning, along with issues around inclusivity and diversity.
The symposium builds on the ALTE International Conferences which have been held regularly around Europe since 2001, and which have built a reputation as the leading multilingual forum for research and best practice in language assessment.
Dr Nick Saville, Secretary-General of ALTE, explained ‘The last twelve months have been like no other but one thing that has not changed is ALTE’s commitment to quality in language assessment. There has also been a huge need to find new ways of assessing languages as part of our aim to safeguard the future of multilingual language assessment. This has been achieved with high levels of collaboration and that’s why events like this Digital Symposium are so important. Although we can’t all be together in person, I’m sure the virtual reality platform will give participants a sense of community and the chance to discuss important matters, connect, share ideas and network.’
ALTE (Association of Language Testers in Europe) is an international charitable Non-Governmental Organisation which promotes the fair and accurate assessment of linguistic ability across Europe and beyond. ALTE was founded in 1991 following an initial collaboration between Universidad de Salamanca and Cambridge Assessment English.
To register and find out more about the programme and list of speakers visit this page.