Language proficiency screening options for the National Authority for Interpreters and Translators (NAATI)

NAATI approached us with the request of conducting a feasibility study. Since then, we have been engaged in several projects.

Welcome word in many languages

Language proficiency screening options for the National Authority for Interpreters and Translators (NAATI)

2016

A report by Hale et al (2012) recommended that potential candidates for NAATI interpreting and translating exams take screening tests in English and/or the LOTE (language other than English) they will be working with before they take a NAATI exam, to ensure their language proficiency is sufficiently high to cope with the NAATI exam. The Language Testing Research Centre (LTRC) reviewed possible screening options in both English and LOTE and presented a final report to NAATI in March 2016.

Determining and monitoring the language proficiency standards of applicants seeking NAATI accreditation

2016

The LTRC conducted a workshop with a group of NAATI representatives to determine appropriate language proficiency standards for applicants seeking NAATI accreditation. The workshop had the dual aim of:

  • a) setting minimum language proficiency standards in English and languages other than English (LOTEs) for interpreting and translating purposes, and
  • b) reviewing the means by which the attainment of these minimum standards could be determined for those seeking NAATI accreditation.

A final report was prepared for NAATI at the end of 2016.

Developing a LOTE proficiency test for public service staff

2016-2017

The LTRC was engaged to develop a proficiency test for languages other than English for staff working in public services. The aim of the test was to gauge whether an employee working in the public service sphere had sufficient proficiency in a LOTE (language other than English) to be able to act as a Language Aide in his or her office, to facilitate interactions with non-English speaking clients and customers. The test materials were developed in 2016 and delivered in 2017 in combination with rater training materials.