The Power of Tests: A Critical Perspective on the Uses of Language Tests

ISBN-13: 9780582423367 Publisher: Taylor & Francis Publication date: 01/12/2001 Series: Language In Social Life Pages: 208 Product dimensions: 6.25(w) x 9.25(h) x 0.66(d) Language in Social Life is a major series which highlights the importance of language to an understanding of issues of social and professional concern. It will be of practical relevance to all those wanting to understand how the ways we communicate both influence and are influenced by the structures and forces of contemporary social institutions.In all modern societies individuals are subject to tests, whether to enter educational programs, to pass from one level to the next or to grant certificates to practice. Yet, tests are powerful tools which are often introduced in undemocratic and unethical ways as disciplinary tools for carrying out various policy agendas. Tests can be detrimental to people's lives as they are capable of affecting and defining the knowledge and behaviour of those who are being tested. The