Communication as a Future Ready Skill: A Proposed Framework and Strategies for Assessment

Abstract

Effective communication skills are essential for success in both academic and professional contexts. This concept paper presents a novel framework designed to operationally define and support the development of assessments of communication skills with a specific emphasis on K–12 settings. Through discussions on important considerations for the conceptualization, development, implementation, and use of assessments of communication skills, this paper aims to equip educators and interest holders with insights to foster effective assessment practices of communication skills. Ultimately, we hope this framework may support the identification, development, and assessment of communication skills among school-age learners as we strive to empower students to navigate and excel in the future. Suggested citation: Ober, T. M., Johnson, D. G., Liu, L., Kinsey, D., & Courey, K. A. (2025). Communication as a future ready skill: A proposed framework and strategies for assessments (Research Report No. RR-25-05). ETS.