Application of rubrics for the assessment of productive skills in english language teaching at ecuadorian universities

This study analyzed the use of rubrics as assessment tools for the productive skills of speaking and writing in six Language Centers at Ecuadorian universities. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach with a descriptive-comparative design, employing an online survey addressed to the coordinators of the centers and the collection of both institutional and teacher-designed rubrics. The findings revealed that although most centers have formalized rubrics, there is still a heterogeneous application regarding their existence, frequency of use, and the criteria considered. It was identified that the most frequently evaluated aspects in speaking were pronunciation, fluency, and grammar, whereas in writing the predominant criteria were grammar, organization, coherence, and cohesion. In addition, it was found that 83.3% of the centers shared the rubrics with students, which constitutes a positive formative practice. Nevertheless, the lack of standardization in the evaluation criteria limits comparability across institutions and equity in assessment processes. In conclusion, the study highlights the need to institutionalize rubrics aligned with international frameworks such as the CEFR and ACTFL Guidelines, while recommending the reinforcement of teacher training in rubric design and application.