Conceptualising DIALANG 2.0 : Is there a role for mediation in a theory-driven approach to computer-based diagnostic language assessment?

Harding, Luke and Brunfaut, Tineke and Kremmel, Benjamin and Huhta, Ari (2025) Conceptualising DIALANG 2.0 : Is there a role for mediation in a theory-driven approach to computer-based diagnostic language assessment? In: Dynamic and diagnostic language assessment : Learning across frameworks to support second/foreign language education. Trends in Applied Linguistics . De Gruyter Mouton, pp. 237-264. ISBN 9783111233703

Abstract

This chapter provides a discussion of the extent to which mediation – a key element of dynamic assessment – could be integrated into a computer-based diagnostic language assessment system. The discussion focuses specifically on early conceptualisations of such a system, which we have named DIALANG 2.0. Following an introduction, we provide background information on the DIALANG 2.0 project, with reference to an earlier and widely used system called DIALANG. We describe the systems and provide a justification for the current plans. We then turn to a specific question: Is there a role for mediation in DIALANG 2.0? In answering this question, we think through ways in which mediation might be in-tegrated into the DIALANG 2.0 system, considering roles and types of mediation, and proposing some potential modifications to the DIALANG 2.0 blueprint. Fi-nally, feasibility and challenges are addressed, with a section weighing up the benefits of integrating mediation against the costs involved in a more complex and elaborate computer-based diagnostic assessment system. In a set of conclud-ing remarks, we reflect on the process of writing this chapter.