Evaluating technology-mediated second language oral communication assessment delivery models

As our understanding of the construct of oral communication (OC) has evolved, so have the possibilities of computer technology undertaking the delivery of tests that measure this ability. It is paramount to understand to what extent such developments lead to accurate, comprehensive, and useful assessment of OC. In this paper, we discuss five models of technology-delivered OC assessment that have appeared in the past three decades. We evaluate these models in terms of how well their respective methods aid in assessing OC. To achieve this aim, we use a framework which takes into account a contemporary view of OC ability, including the call for incorporating English as a lingua franca (ELF) considerations into English language assessment. The evaluation of the five models suggests strengths and weaknesses of each that should be considered when determining which is used for a particular purpose.