Reflecting on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and its Companion Volume

The CEFR and its Companion Volume have established themselves as a reference point for second and foreign language education, impacting curricula, teaching/learning, and assessment. The book discusses the impact of the CEFR on these areas, identifies challenges, and highlights areas for further research and development. It emphasizes the action-oriented approach, focus on plurilingualism, and potential of scales and descriptors to support curriculum alignment. The book suggests a way forward for future engagement with the CEFR, considering new developments in applied linguistics and related disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and its Companion Volume have emerged as pivotal resources in the realm of second and foreign language education, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding language proficiency and its assessment. This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of the CEFR on curricula, teaching/learning practices, and assessment methodologies across diverse educational contexts. It identifies the challenges posed by the Companion Volume and highlights areas that warrant further research and development.

In particular, the book emphasizes three key features of the CEFR and its Companion Volume: their action-oriented approach, their commitment to plurilingualism, and the potential of their scales and descriptors to facilitate curriculum alignment, teaching/learning strategies, and assessment practices. By examining these aspects, the book offers valuable insights into the future of language education and proposes a roadmap for ongoing engagement with the CEFR, considering the latest developments in applied linguistics and related disciplines.

The CEFR and its Companion Volume have revolutionized the way we approach language learning and assessment, offering a standardized framework that promotes consistency, transparency, and adaptability across different countries and educational systems. Their emphasis on practical language skills, their recognition of multiple language proficiency levels, and their provision of detailed descriptors for language proficiency have facilitated the development of effective language teaching and learning strategies.

Furthermore, the CEFR has played a crucial role in promoting plurilingualism by recognizing the importance of learning multiple languages and promoting the development of intercultural competence. It has encouraged educators to embrace a more inclusive and diverse approach to language education, recognizing the value of different languages and cultures in today's globalized world.

However, it is important to note that the implementation of the CEFR and its Companion Volume has not been without its challenges. One of the primary challenges is the need for ongoing training and professional development for educators to effectively integrate the framework into their teaching practices. Additionally, there may be differences in the interpretation and application of the framework across different educational contexts, which can lead to variations in language proficiency assessment outcomes.

To address these challenges, it is recommended that educators continue to engage with the CEFR and its Companion Volume through ongoing research, professional development, and collaboration. This can involve exploring new teaching and learning strategies that align with the framework's principles, conducting pilot studies to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework in different educational contexts, and developing resources and materials that support its implementation.

In conclusion, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and its Companion Volume have established themselves as indispensable resources in the field of second and foreign language education. This book highlights the profound impact of the CEFR on curricula, teaching/learning practices, and assessment methodologies, and proposes a way forward for future engagement with the framework, considering the latest developments in applied linguistics and related disciplines. By embracing the principles of the CEFR and its Companion Volume, educators can foster language proficiency, promote plurilingualism, and create inclusive and effective language learning environments for their students.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800410183