Using DIALANG to track English language learners' progress over time

Abstract

The current paper presents a case study where an attempt was made to re-purpose an existing language testing system. More specifically, the paper investigated the suitability of an online diagnostic assessment system (DIALANG) for tracking the English language proficiency of three groups of university students in four different skills/aspects over a period of three years. The study presents the results, issues and challenges that arise when an assessment system is used for a different purpose than it was originally designed for and discusses the lessons learnt.