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In:Quantitative Methods in Multilingual Acquisition and Processing
Edited by Gabrielle Klassen and John W. Schwieter
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 16] 2026
► pp. 103–126

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Chapter 6
Measuring spoken language proficiency using offline methods

Published online: 26 March 2026
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https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.16.06aus
Abstract
Research in applied linguistics typically includes measurement of spoken language proficiency as either a grouping variable or an outcome variable, often for purposes of group comparisons by age, age of acquisition or exposure, language(s) spoken, or other factors. A variety of standardized and researcher-developed measures are available for these purposes. This chapter will review the literature regarding oral language proficiency measurement in different bi/multilingual populations: children and adults, early/simultaneous and late/sequential bilinguals. The significance of a selection rationale will be discussed within the context of key constructs and definitions regarding bilingualism. Researcher-designed measures such as self-ratings scales, lexical/semantic tasks, elicited repetition tasks and others will be presented, along with standardized proficiency assessments. The need for different measurement strategies will be highlighted depending on the purpose of the study. Finally, concerns regarding the construct of language proficiency will be underscored, and consideration of new ways of viewing bilingualism, and of measuring bilingual language skills, will be discussed.
Article outline
  • 6.1Introduction
  • 6.2Key concepts: Monolingualism, bilingualism, and multilingualism
  • 6.3Proficiency measurement within an umbrella framework
    for conceptualizing bilingualism
  • 6.4Offline measurements of language proficiency skills
    • 6.4.1Researcher-developed measures of proficiency
    • 6.4.2Standardized measures of proficiency
    • 6.4.3Research contexts for proficiency measurement
  • 6.5Conclusion: Challenges to the measurement and the notion of proficiency
  • References
References (47)
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