DISCEFRN

Does standardization matter? Evaluating the potential of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to foster labour market inclusion of immigrants.

The main aim of this project is to examine the potential and pitfalls of introducing standardized language requirements (CEFR) in the hiring process, specifically in relation to the labour market inclusion of immigrants.

Based on a combination of web-scraped data from roughly 85,000 job ads, a vignettestudy and expertratings, it addresses two main objectives:

1)  Assessing the current implementation of CEFR requirements on the Norwegian labour market (how prevalent are CEFR requirements in the Norwegian labour market, what CEFR levels are required for which professions, are these levels adequate). It thereby ties in with the Language Assessment for Migration and Integration Special Interest group (Council of Europe, ALTE LAMI SIG), which aims to develop a digital needs analysis tool that supports employers in setting adequate CEFR requirements for different professions.
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2)  Comparing how standardized CEFR requirements and subjective requirements affect the hiring chances of immigrants. Which one is more favourable for immigrant applicants and to employers who set these requirements?

Funding

Funded by the European Union Under: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA, Horizon Europe Actions); Postdoctoral fellowship project (Miriam Schmaus): Grant agreement ID: 101065566; DOI: 10.3030/101065566

Team

Project results and materials

The data collection phase of the project was completed in 01/2025. We are currently analyzing the collected data and prepare materials for publication. This section will be updated as soon as these materials are available.