Foreign-Language University Teachers` Competencies Assessment

The paper aims to identify the competencies foreign language university instructors need to possess to successfully fulfill their duties, and to determine the assessment tools that can be used to evaluate those competencies. The underlying methodology implemented in the paper is evidence-centered design. Based on research, standards and existing competency matrices four competencies were established, namely, communicative, pedagogical, axiological and institutional competencies, each of them supplemented by relevant descriptors and indicators. The indicators are divided into two groups: the ones appropriate for the basic and the expert levels, the basis of such a division being the research on expert teacher qualities, the opinions of Department Heads, and the views of Higher School of Economics students. The established competency matrix used as the foundation, the potential of lesson observation as an evaluation tool is analysed. It is concluded that a more reliable and valid instrument, such as a portfolio, is needed for the purpose. It is also demonstrated how the competency matrix developed by the author can be used for the design of assessment criteria of professional behavior and products.