Times Higher Education: Measuring what matters: rethinking language assessment for a changing world
Online
Organisation: Times Higher Education
Date: Wednesday, 11 March 2026 Time: 8:00–9:00 PST | 11:00–12:00 EST | 16:00–17:00 GMT
As the needs of learners and institutions evolve, English proficiency tests must actively enable student success, including integrated, task-based designs that mirror real-life language use. A more holistic and adaptive assessment can ensure that test preparation builds skills that translate to professional, academic and social success, while offering a baseline for targeted support and developmental guidance for students’ academic journey.
This webinar, held in partnership between Times Higher Education and the Oxford Test of English from Oxford University Press, will bring together a panel of experts to explore the critical components for effective language assessment today and how recognising the right English proficiency tests can promote successful learner outcomes.
Topics for discussion will include:
• Overview of OUP’s research on English-language testing
• Adopting assessments that prioritise real-world language over test performance
• AI’s impact and influence on the future of English proficiency testing
• What institutions should look for when recognising an English proficiency test to ensure successful learner outcomes • Accepting different English proficiency tests to remove barriers for applicants and promote inclusivity
