CRELLA
Centre for Research in English Language Learning and Assessment
World Leading Expertise in Language Assessment
CRELLA provides scholars, examining boards, and government organisations with guidance and assistance in achieving the highest standards of research and development in English language learning and assessment. A major focus of CRELLA activity is research into the nature of English language proficiency, and into improved methodologies for measuring this.
Members of CRELLA undertake research projects and consultancies in all aspects of language testing and evaluation. Currently members of CRELLA are working on projects in the UK, Europe, East Asia, and the Americas. Among others, our recent clients include:
- The British Council (IELTS, Aptis, EnglishScore)
- Cambridge Assessment English (Cambridge English Qualifications, Linguaskill)
- English Language Testing (Password)
- Trinity College London (ISE, GESE)
- English Profile
- EIKEN Foundation of Japan (TEAP, EIKEN)
- Language Training and Testing Center, Taiwan (GEPT)
- Educational Testing Service, USA (TOEFL)
- Plan Ceibal, Uruguay
We supervise students carrying out MPhil, PhD and MA by research projects in English language assessment, and related areas of language learning.
Student research proposals are particularly welcome in the areas of:
- Academic literacy and language proficiency
- Aligning tests to frameworks such as the CEFR
- Assessing language skills across the proficiency spectrum
- Cognitive processing and social factors in language tests
- Computer technologies in language learning and assessment
- Developing assessment literacy among test stakeholders
- Formative assessment and assessment for learning
- The construct(s) of language proficiency
- Washback and the use and impacts of language tests and assessments
We also offer an Attachment Programme in English Language testing, evaluation, and ELT curriculum designed for the ELT researcher or practitioner who requires an individualised programme. It is especially appropriate for research students and academics on sabbatical leave.