A forum on “The common European framework of reference for languages (CEFL) and the formulation of language policies: challenges and responsibilities” ended in Strasbourg on 8 February. During the three-day meeting the participants tackled various responsibilities coinciding with the introduction of this common European instrument that contributes to the reform of language programmes and exams, as also school textbooks in the sector. The standards of language skills contained in the CEFL help raise the quality of teaching and the transparency of results. The forum also examined the question of the challenges posed to ministers and institutions involved in the creation of transparent tests and exams throughout Europe, diplomas based on European standards, coherent curricula and proper language education. The CEFL, or “Common European Framework of reference for languages: learning, teaching, assessing” has already been translated into 35 languages (including Japanese and Arabic). It establishes the standards relating to language skills widely used by Ministries of Education and by the private sector. It permits the objectives of learning to be fixed at various levels, to formulate coherent language programmes, and to train teachers. It is also used to standardise tests and exams and to facilitate the comparison of diplomas.
