OPI
OPI (Oral Proficiency Interview) is a standardized test used to evaluate how well someone can speak a language. It's widely used by employers, especially government agencies and companies that hire interpreters and language professionals. The test involves a conversation with a certified tester who assesses the person's ability to communicate in the target language. Think of it like a speaking test that measures how well someone can actually use a language in real-life situations, not just their knowledge of grammar or vocabulary.
Examples in Resumes
Achieved Superior rating on OPI test in Spanish and Portuguese
Certified OPI tester for Arabic language assessment
Maintained OPI Advanced-High rating for 5 consecutive years
Typical job title: "Language Testers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Language Testers
Professional Organizations
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure consistency in OPI ratings across different testers?
Expected Answer: Should discuss standardization procedures, regular calibration sessions, quality control measures, and experience in training other testers.
Q: What strategies do you use when testing candidates who are extremely nervous?
Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for putting candidates at ease, maintaining test validity while being supportive, and adapting questioning strategies without compromising assessment standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the difference between Advanced and Superior level speakers?
Expected Answer: Should explain the key differences in language abilities, such as handling abstract topics, hypothetical situations, and complex arguments.
Q: What do you do if a candidate tries to memorize prepared responses?
Expected Answer: Should describe techniques for redirecting conversation and ensuring spontaneous language use through follow-up questions and topic shifts.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main levels in the OPI scale?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list and briefly describe the main proficiency levels: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Superior.
Q: How do you structure an OPI test?
Expected Answer: Should describe the basic format including warm-up, level checks, probes, and wind-down phases of the interview.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of ACTFL guidelines
- Conducting basic level assessments
- Knowledge of testing protocols
- Basic interviewing techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Testing across multiple proficiency levels
- Detailed knowledge of rating criteria
- Advanced elicitation techniques
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and mentoring other testers
- Program coordination
- Test development
- Standards setting and maintenance
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal OPI tester certification
- Lack of recent testing experience
- Unable to explain rating criteria
- No experience with standardized testing procedures
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