Celebrating the launch of the Language Assessment and Testing Unit (LATU)

A new research unit, Language Assessment and Testing Unit (LATU) was launched on 23 January, 2024, under the Centre for Linguistics, Language Education and Acquisition Research (CLLEAR) in Languages, Cultures and Linguistics (LCL).

LATU members Ying Zheng, Duygu Candarli and Ozgur Sahan presented their work in the field of language assessment and testing. Mary Page from the Academic Centre for International Students (ACIS) presented her work on developing international students' feedback literacy. PGR representatives showcased their PhD projects as well as various interdisciplinary projects they are working on with their supervisors.

The event brought together staff, students, teachers and representatives of the British Council with the view of sharing ideas, approaches and questions about language testing and assessment. The invited speakers from the British Council had an engaging roundtable discussion on the use of AI in the assessment practices.

Dr Alison Porter, Deputy Head of School, said at the event closing "The chances LATU offers researchers and students to share, collaborate and investigate at the cutting-edge of domains within our disciplines are the backbone of the rich and vibrant research culture for which Humanities at Southampton is known". Professor Laura Dominguez, Head of LCL, commented that “this event is a great initiative and a clear example of how an interdisciplinary approach to a current research theme can have impact within and outside academia”.