This course is an introduction to key concepts, principles and practices in language testing and assessment, and in the broader area of course and programme evaluation. The course is designed for education professionals with a general interest in language assessment, and for those with a specific professional role in this area. You will explore approaches to design, delivery and alignment of language assessment - of language skills and underlying competences such as grammar. You will also examine alternative approaches to assessment, and implications of digital and online delivery.
" The course is filling a niche no other course fills; the course helps you approach language testing in a structured manner, helping you identify the main themes and key concepts from where you can keep on learning independently about the subject.
Itziar, March 2023
The tutor has top marks for her aptitude and attitude: she is competent, caring, supporting, understanding and a joy to work with. "
Is this course for you?
Teachers involved in testing, assessment and evaluation in their professional context
13 January - 19 March 2025
15 September - 19 November 2025
Course content
The course will look at the key principles in evaluation in ELT: different models for different objectives; review of formative and summative purposes in testing and assessment; key issues in test design, construction and validation. Finally, we will explore how to put principles into practice: producing good tests and making them work.
" The interaction with the other participants has been particularly fun and enlightening. I am amazed at how much I've been able to take from the live sessions. "
Evelyn, March 2023
" One of the best parts of the course was to be constantly thinking about my teaching context in connection to the contents being discussed. "
Estefania, June 2023
Further Information
NILE Online courses are highly interactive and learning takes place through varied and engaging multimedia content and the collaboration between participants from different contexts. All participants work on the same unit in the same week but there is a high level of flexibility within that time period to help you fit studying around your life and work. The interaction, via forums and other collaborative tools built into the platform, helps and encourages you to share ideas, ask questions, explore concepts and build up a community.
You need a computer, a headset (with microphone) and an Internet connection. Much of the course can be done on a mobile device, but a computer is needed for certain activities and tasks.
Participants have access to NILE's extensive ELT e-library and an innovative social and cultural programme. All NILE Online courses include an element of professional language development, i.e. language related to course content and/or the classroom.
Meet a Course Tutor: Anna Whinnett
Anna is a NILE Affiliate Trainer and consultant with specific expertise in language testing and assessment and EAP. Since starting as a teacher in 1997, she has worked as a senior leader, teacher trainer and senior examiner, and has extensive experience in both face-to-face and online environments. Anna’s qualifications include an MA in Language Testing, a postgraduate Dip TESOL and the LTCL Diploma TESOL. She is currently undertaking PhD research into multilingual e-assessments.
Available dates:
| Course dates | Location | Course length | |
| 13 January - 19 March 2025 | Online | 8 weeks | |
| 13 January - 19 March 2025 with Trinity CertPT | Online | 8 weeks | |
| 15 September - 19 November 2025 | Online | 8 weeks | |
| 15 September - 19 November 2025 with Trinity CertPT | Online | 8 weeks |
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