Second Language Speaking Tasks & Language Testing - Prof Peter Skehan, UCL IOE, 25 May 2022

"Linking Second Language Speaking Tasks and Language Testing"

UCL Centre for Applied Linguistics Research Seminar, University College London, 25 May 2022 (Wed), 12:00-13:30, held on Zoom

Prof Peter Skehan, University College London
Hosted by Prof Andrea Revesz, IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society

Abstract
The presentation will try to relate two broad literatures: one concerned with research into second language task-based performance and the other focussing on the testing of speaking. To explore this, theories from each area will be briefly considered, and related to one another, covering proposals by Bachman, Hulstijn, and Levelt, and examining how each makes proposals about underlying competences, and also means of converting any such competences into performance. More theoretically, two propositions will be offered: that the difficulty of speaking tests needs to be considered separately for Conceptualiser and Formulator processes, and that the construct of Ability for Use is fundamental to understand how any underlying abilities are mobilised for actual performance. Turning to empirical work, findings from task research will be reviewed that may impact on second language test-task performance. There will be particular focus on planning, both pre-task and on-line, and on task characteristic effects. Brief discussion will also be provided of whether there are rating scale implications from task research; as well the central issue of whether task research results are replicated in testing contexts.

Prof Peter Skehan is an Honorary Research Fellow in the UCL Centre for Applied Linguistics at IOE, University College London’s Faculty of Education and Society. Previously he taught at universities in the U.K. (including the Institute of Education), Hong Kong, and New Zealand. He is interested in second language acquisition, especially task-based performance, language testing, and foreign language aptitude. Recent publications have appeared in the Modern Language Journal on speaking style (with Francine Pang) and System, on developing speaking test-tasks in a Chinese context (with Sheila Luo). With Edward Wen and Richard Sparks he is currently editing a Cambridge University Press volume on progress in understanding foreign language aptitude, scheduled for publication later this year.