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Oral Language Modifiers- Background
Background
The Oral Language Modifier (OLM) is a role created to provide a reasonable adjustment in examinations for candidates who require a level of language support beyond that provided by a reader.
The CIEA will be organising some training events across the country to help prepare prospective OLMs for this role.
The training will consist of three inputs on the nature of the role of an OLM, looking at some of the issues involved in this work, followed by a short exercise to apply knowledge to some simulated events.
The events will be held at:
- The Bonnington Hotel, Bloomsbury, London on April 25th. 2008
- The Bonnington Hotel, Bloomsbury, London on April 28th. 2008
- The Palace Hotel, Oxford Road, Manchester on May 1st. 2008
- The Hilton Hotel, Neville Street, Leeds on May 2nd. 2008
- The Novotel, Broad Street, Birmingham on May 6th. 2008
As distinct from a Reader, an OLM is permitted to clarify the carrier language used in the examination paper. However, any explanation of technical terms may compromise the demands of the question and therefore constitute malpractice, which could impact on the candidate's result.
It is therefore crucial that OLMs are able to distinguish between the two and provide explanation of the question, or carrier, language effectively and within the permitted boundaries defined by the JCQ Regulations and Guidelines.
OLMs must be familiar with the impact of language usage on candidates with reading comprehension issues. This includes an understanding of the potential difficulties caused by the wording of the question such as difficult word order or the use of metaphor.
For help with this work, the CIEA has developed some guidance material.
As well as these materials which look specifically at language difficulties, there is also a handbook to help the OLM perform his or her function in a professional manner.
The Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors (CIEA) in conjunction with the JCQ, awarding bodies and diversity groups, has developed a Training and Guidance Programme to equip OLMs with the detailed knowledge and skills to enable them to provide the most complete support to the candidate without compromising the demands of the question in terms of subject and technical knowledge.
Delegates will benefit from concentrated formal instruction and guidance, which will contribute to their professional development and enhance their confidence in understanding and performing the OLM role.
The course will cover all aspects of the impact of language usage on candidates with reading comprehension issues, and will concentrate on the development of skills to modify such language. Examples include:
- Difficult word order
- The use of the passive voice
- The use of negative language
- The use of complex or elaborate language
- The use of metaphor
- Coursework design
- Command words
The training course will consist of formal teaching, group tasks and paired work as well as individual exercises. Delegates will be assessed throughout the day and given feedback on their work at the conclusion of the course.
In contrast to the role of Reader, the OLM role requires a degree of understanding of complex language and an ability to apply specific principles in order to perform in line with the JCQ Regulations and Guidance.
The training course presumes an existing knowledge of language usage in an educational context, and is therefore appropriate for professionally qualified members of the team.
Attendance will benefit anyone who may need to act as an OLM in this examination season.
It is recommended that the SENCO and/or a Specialist Teacher also attends the course whether they are likely to act as OLM or not, in order to become fully conversant with the principles and practice of the OLM function. Up to 4 members of staff may attend this course.
To download the application form for the OLM training click here
Copies of the application form should be sent to : OLM@ciea.org.uk
Please confirm your attendance at the London venues by Friday 28th. March. Applications received after this date will be considered on an individual basis.
Completed forms can also be sent to :
Carolyn Clarke, CIEA, OLM Training and Guidance, 29 Bolton Street, London, W1J 8GP