Language Training: Testing

Language Assessment Process

Global LT has developed a series of proprietary assessment tests, based on guidelines from the American Council on Teaching Foreign Languages (ACTFL). These tests are currently available in most languages, including Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), English, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Description
Our tests measure a student’s ability to speak, listen, read and write in the target language by having the student complete various social and business-related tasks that the student might encounter in the real world. Some of the tasks include:

• Giving directions
• Communicating with superiors and colleagues
• Debating an issue
• Answering an E-mail

Process
Tests are conducted by Global LT’s instructors, in person or via the web/phone using Adobe. The assessment can occur as a standalone test at a cost of $150 per test, or as part of our language training program, during one of the scheduled lessons.
Our proficiency scale, based on ACTFL guidelines, is as follows:

• Novice-Mid
• Novice-High
• Intermediate-Low,
• Intermediate-Mid,
• Intermediate-High,
• Advanced,
• Advanced Plus,
• Superior
• Distinguished.  

If the assessment is conducted as part of our language training program, the instructor administers an initial student assessment that serves as a placement test. Upon completion, the instructor assigns a proficiency rating. (see above)  Once the instructor determines the proficiency rating, the student is made aware of his or her proficiency level and a language training plan is devised. At this time, the instructor selects class materials from Global LT’s online bookroom, which contains carefully selected texts, well received by students and well respected within the language teaching community.

The instructor continues to monitor the student’s progress throughout the duration of lessons and gives a formal proficiency assessment after every 50 hours of instruction, to evaluate progress.  On average, students progress to a new proficiency level after completion of at least 50 hours of training. Proficiency results are tracked and monitored by Global LT. Whenever necessary, Global LT makes recommendations to modify programs or continue with additional lessons, based on test results.