An ecological perspective on classroom-based assessment

Classroom-based assessment (CBA) takes place in learning environments influenced by myriad individual and contextual factors. Nevertheless, factors related to individual differences and learner psychology are seldom considered in creating instructional environments designed to facilitate learners’ use of CBA. This article introduces the concept of language assessment ecology (LAE)—a dynamic classroom environment where learners’ needs are addressed through deliberate and informed orchestration of language learning environment so that learners can make effective use of assessment for their learning. Informed by Ecological Systems Theory, we postulate that LAE is a multi-layered system, where learners’ engagement with CBA is an outcome of alignment between learning contexts and learners’ cognitive-psychological needs. At the outset of this article, we provide a review of current CBA frameworks to underscore the merits of LAE. Contextual and learner variables that need to be considered in an LAE are then identified and discussed. From a complex dynamic systems perspective, the versatility and complexity of the interplay among these variables will be stressed. The article concludes with implications of LAE for conducting CBA research.