Multimedia Computer Technology And Performance-Based Language Testing: A Demonstration Of The Computerized Oral Proficiency Instrument (COPI)

The field of language testing has long led the way in integrative, performance-based assessment. However, the use of technology in language testing has often meant limiting assessment options. We believe computermediated language assessment can enrich opportunities for language learners to demonstrate what they are able to do with their second language. In this paper, we describe the rationale and operation of the Computerized Oral Proficiency Instrument (COPI), a multimedia, computeradministered oral proficiency test. While at present speech performances on the COPI are evaluated by trained raters using a national standard, the COPI affords an excellent opportunity to investigate the use of Natural Language Processing for computer-assisted evaluation.