Multimodal interactivity in foreign language testing

Abstract

Multimodality in interactive digital environments for second language acquisition testing has been begun to be used only very lately. Some of the multimodality concepts have been recently developed in various research projects. Research into the automation of online university entrance exams has been prompted by the need to efficiently manage online tests and handle the task of exam marking semi-automatically. At the same time, we have addressed the use of multi-platform and/or multi-browser applications to handle the technical and functional validation of accessibility and so enable universal access. The application of multi-modularity to methods of navigation during the examination is possible in mobile devices that enable simultaneous interaction when students input data. This chapter aims to demonstrate the technical feasibility of the implementation process for an examination in regard to the technological and formal variables of navigation in the exam. These variables are currently being handled in mobile devices and the result is a further advancement in the process of Computer Aided Language Learning, CALL. This paper presents the multimodal approach has been taken into account in the development of an online prototype which validates the functional and technical assumptions adapted to university entrance exams for foreign languages.