Issues in the Assessment of English Oral Proficiency for Civil Aviation Personnel in Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore ESP (English for Specific Purposes) issues required the development and administration of an oral proficiency test for Korean aviation personnel. The paper presents fundamental considerations for the test development, suggestions for the task construction and rating, as well as the problems inherent to ESP tests. It suggests appropriate test types and formats that conform to the guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The construct to be measured in aviation-specific proficiency tests is discussed from the meaningfulness of aviation phraseology. The paper proposes the establishment of a cooperative system among testing specialists, applied linguists, aviation personnel, government representatives, and other major stake holders.