Matthew E. Poehner received his PhD in French with a specialization in Applied Linguistics from the Pennsylvania State University. His research interests include processes of second language development, classroom-based assessment, and the relationship between assessment and teaching practices. He is especially interested in exploring the use of L.S. Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory of Mind as a theoretical perspective on second language learning as well as a basis for innovations in language instruction and assessment. His current work focuses on developing Dynamic Assessment procedures for use in second language contexts.

Dynamic Assessment (DA) reconceptualizes classroom interactions by arguing that teaching and assessment should not be distinct undertakings. This book offers a much-needed coherent framework for co-constructing a ZPD with learners in order to simultaneously reveal the full range of their abilities and promote development. DA has a long history in education but it is new to the L2 field. This book provides the first book-length treatment of DA in the language classroom.

Part I Dynamic Assessment ¿ Theory, Models, and Challenges.- 1 Introducing Dynamic Assessment. The Role of Assessement in Second Language Education. Contemporary Views on the Relevance of Assessment to Instruction.Assessment and Instruction from a Vygotskyan Perspective. Models of Dynamic Assessment.Dynamic Assessment and Resistance to Change. Conclusion and Overview of the book.- 2 The Origins of Dynamic Assessment: Sociocultural Theory and the Zone of Proximal Development.Introduction.Vygotsky¿s Sociocultural Theory of Mind.Theory in Action: The Zone of Proximal Development. Post-Vygotskyan Interpretations of the ZPD. Conclusion.- 3 Models of Dynamic Assessment. Introduction.Interventionist DA.Interactionist DA: Feuerstein¿s Mediated Learning Experience.Applications of MLE in Educational Contexts. Conclusion.- 4 Issues in Dynamic Assessment. Introduction.Psychometric Criticisms.Mediating Learner Development.Learner Reciprocity. Conclusion. Part II Dynamic Assessment and Second Language Development.- 5 Toward a Model of L2 Dynamic Assessment.Introduction. Dynamic-like Assessments in a L2 Context.Interventionist L2 DA.Interactionist L2 DA. Ongoing L2 DA Work. Co-constructing a ZPD with L2 Learners.Principles of Classroom-based L2 Dynamic Assessment.Dynamic Assessment of Oral Communication Among Advanced Learners of L2 French.Conclusion.- 6 Understanding L2 Development Through Dynamic Assessment.Introduction. Revising Diagnoses of Learners¿ Abilities. Learner Vebalization.Conclusion.- 7 Promoting L2 Development Through Dynamic Assessment. Introduction.Evidence of Development Over Time. Learner¿s Emerging Autonomy. Misdiagnosis and Inappropriate Mediation. Conclusion.- 8 Profiling L2 Development Through Dynamic Assessment. Introduction. Gal¿Perin¿s Stages of Performance. Profiling Learner Development. Conclusion.- 9 Constructing A Future for L2 Dynamic Assessment. Introduction. Computerized Dynamic Assessment. Dynamic Assessment and Peer-to-PeerMediation. Dynamic Assessment and Cognitive Decline. Dynamic Assessment and Social Justice.- Notes.- References.- Index.