Translation in Computer-Based International Large-Scale Assessment: Not a Stand-Alone Component

From the perspective of translation and linguistic quality assurance (LQA), the evolution of international large-scale surveys from paper-based to computer-based assessments has had far-reaching implications: Elaborate processes that apply to one testing mode may be inadequate or ill-suited for another. This chapter briefly describes the state of the art of translation and LQA in computer-delivered assessments, and endeavours to identify opportunities in this field that may have been overlooked: As international large-scale assessments (ILSAs) migrated to technology-rich environments, existing translation models have often been replicated without being challenged. The focus has been on maintaining the same time frame and containing budget growth rather than on investigating efficient ways to leverage advances in translation technology and methodology. Paradoxically, current translation and verification processes for computer-based items fail to harness the full potential of translation technology. This chapter will examine prerequisites and implications of a shift in paradigm leading to professionalization of survey instrument translation.