Introduction to Standard Setting         

This course provides an overview of standard setting and how it fits into the process of aligning tests to an external framework, such as the CEFR. It introduces key terminology and concepts related to standard setting and an overview of commonly used methods. It includes practical advice on setting up, running and validating standard setting in your institution.

What knowledge and/or skills will I gain from this course?

The ALTE Standard Setting course covers the following:

• How standard setting relates to aligning your test to a language proficiency framework
• What terminology and concepts are essential to know
• Which standard setting methods best fit your context
• How to prepare for standard setting and run it effectively
• Collecting internal and external evidence to validate your standard setting 

Who is this course suitable for?

No previous knowledge of standard setting is required, although it does assume a basic knowledge of whatever language proficiency framework your test is aligned to. For most ALTE members, this is usually the CEFR, and this is the framework which will be used to exemplify points during the course. The course is suitable for people who are new to standard setting, those who need a refresher, or those who are preparing for an audit.

Can I run standard setting for my institution after attending this course?

This course is introductory, so it depends on the level of expertise and resources available in your institution. The ALTE Services Unit offer a bespoke in-house standard setting consultancy service for institutions to enable them to set up and run standard setting. This could be through in-service training or a scaffolded mentoring and support service. Please contact the ALTE Services Unit for details.

How is this course delivered?

This course is delivered online. It consists of interactive meetings with the whole group, small breakout sessions, bite-size introductory input, individual study tasks, group discussions, and interactive Q&A. A pre-course questionnaire will be used to tailor the tasks to the level and preferences of those attending. It is not necessary to prepare for the tasks in advance, but these will be made available for those who may want to review the content or language. The session will last between 3-4 hours and will include a 30 minute break.

Does this course require any specific software?

This course does not require any specific software, but it is a paper-free ‘green’ course, and all material will be delivered/shared online. You will need your own laptop.

Who is the tutor?

The course will be presented by Jane Lloyd (Cambridge University Press and Assessment). Jane is Senior Research Manager at Cambridge English. Her main responsibilities are leading on standard setting for Cambridge exams, working on large-scale educational reform projects with ministries and NGOs, and working for ALTE. Her work for ALTE is to support other national language test providers. This includes: statistical analysis of items, analysis of rater performance, research into exam and language use at regional and national level, courses and training in assessment, preparation for audits, and training for item writers, test designers and raters. She has a degree in Linguistics, a DELTA, an MA in Linguistics and TESOL, and an MA in Language Testing. She is currently studying for a PhD in Language Testing at CRELLA. 

When is the next course?

The date for the next Introduction to Standard Setting online course is 4 October 2024..

How can I register?

You can register for this course here.  

Expression of Interest

If you would like to express your interest in this course, or any other ALTE course, please click here.

Can several people from the same organisation join this course?

For group bookings, ALTE advises to book a maximum of three places per organisation.

How can I pay?

Full payment is required on registration. We strongly recommend that payment is made online using a Visa, MasterCard or American Express. However, if it is not possible to pay with a credit/debit card when registering, please contact the ALTE Services Unit (servicesunit@alte.org) to request an invoice with bank transfer payment instructions.