Language Testing Frequently Asked Questions

Language proficiency testing evaluates how well a candidate can use language to communicate orally (listening and speaking test) and/or in writing (written test).

What are the main different types of language tests? What do we test in a language test?

• Listening/Speaking: The listening and speaking test assesses a candidate’s proficiency in oral communication. The ALTA Listening and Speaking Proficiency Test consists of several pools of prompts, with each pool targeting a specific objective (e.g. describing future plans). For this test, candidates will be speaking aloud in response to oral discussion prompts.
• Writing: The writing test assesses a candidate’s proficiency in written communication. The ALTA Writing Proficiency Test consists of several pools of prompts designed to elicit writing samples in a variety of styles and forms. For this test, candidates will be reading prompts and responding to them in writing.
• Translation: The translation test assesses a candidate’s ability to convey the meaning of a source language text in another language. The ALTA Translation Proficiency Test consists of three passages that encompass several topics (e.g. news article, business). The translation of the first passage is required. The candidate then chooses to translate either the second or third passage. For this test, candidates will be reading prompts and translating them in writing.
• Interpretation: The interpretation test assesses the ability of a candidate to facilitate the oral communication between users of different languages. The ALTA Interpretation Test consists in a dialog specific to a professional field (e.g. medical) that the candidate must interpret. For this test, candidates will be listening to speakers and then orally interpreting the conversation.
• Reading Comprehension: The reading comprehension test assesses the ability of a candidate to understand the main idea of a text as well as stated and implied details. The ALTA Reading Comprehension Test consists of a series of passages with multiple choice questions. For this test, candidates will be required to read passages and respond to multiple choice questions about the content of the passage.

Does ALTA provide language tests for specific industries

ALTA has off-the-shelf tests for specific industries like: healthcare providers, law enforcement (police patrol), behavioral health, dentists and hygienists, and document reviewers. ALTA develops new industry-specific tests on an ongoing basis to meet the needs of any organization or industry.

What is the difference between the ALTA standard test and a customized test?

Many of ALTA’s clients want a general test to place the skills of their candidates on a language performance scale. A standard off-the-shelf test typically meets this need.

For other clients who have needs that go beyond our standard test offerings, the ALTA team will identify the language skills and specific terminology necessary to perform the tasks. This process involves interviews, document collection, development of a customized test, and beta-testing of incumbents currently performing the job in order to determine the job’s requirements from a language standpoint. By defining the requirements for a job in quantifiable terms, an organization can use language testing results as part of the selection process and have a defensible basis for where the pass-fail line is placed when testing is done.

Why is language testing important? Why do I need to have my employees tested?

Imagine your organization needs to hire several customer service representatives who can handle questions from your Spanish speaking customers. The candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in Spanish is a key function of the job, but how will you ensure that the individuals you hire speak the language they say they speak? How will you ensure they are at the level of proficiency required for the task? Language testing provides an objective, standardized way to ensure that language abilities are clearly measured, which is vital when they are a key function of the position.

What is the value of using independent language testing? Why can't I have an employee who speaks the language test our new employees?

An independent testing organization such as ALTA has no vested interest in the outcome of the tests. We have no incentive to pass or fail candidates because of other factors such as personality, a need to fill positions, or existing relationships. An independent testing organization instead focuses only on the candidate’s performance in using the language. We have a strong interest in maintaining our reputation for quality, and our emphasis is on using valid and reliable tests to properly rate the candidate’s performance. As a result, independent language testing gives the assurance that the testing is legally defensible.

What Languages does ALTA test?

The languages are listed here.