As both a teacher and test developer I often have the feeling that the seemingly related fields of teaching and testing are in reality worlds apart. Being active in both fields, I try to mediate, to put it in CEFR terms. On one hand, as a test developer I want to measure skills and collect empirical data on my subjects. On the other hand, I am a compassionate teacher (I think) and I really do want all my students to do well.
A world in lockdown: adapting to remote testing
Amongst the many disruptions caused by the covid-19 pandemic has been the closure of IELTS test centres and widespread postponement of IELTS tests. For most students, schools and universities this has brought the academic application process to a halt – but not for all.
Computer-delivered IELTS: why you must try it out
Sieon Lau reports on a Road to IELTS upgrade that enables IELTS test takers to prepare for the increasingly popular CD IELTS.
Running tests from home
Now more than ever, institutions are finding the need to deliver tests to students who are not able to go to a controlled computer room. What can you do to find the best setup that will make this run as smoothly as possible? This post refers principally to the Dynamic Placement Test, but many of the ideas are relevant to other tests too.
Why librarians are embracing digital for language learning
At a recent gathering of librarians in Melbourne, an interesting discussion sprung up about the advantages and disadvantages of providing digital resources for library patrons. Andrew Stokes gives a summary.
Planning IELTS Prep: A Life Hack
Andrew Stokes points to a life hack that helps IELTS candidates optimise their preparation time.
How to pass IELTS first time
Lucas Gade discusses a successful strategy for reducing the number of expensive, time-consuming IELTS retakes.
Active Reading and ESOL Skills for Life
Elinor Stokes looks at how Active Reading can support students taking the UK’s ESOL Skills for Life qualifications — any by extension, similar tests in different countries.
New Admin Panel: powerful yet simple
January 2020 saw the release of the new version of Dynamic Placement Test Admin Panel. Sky Chan, Product Manager, talks about what he aimed to achieve with this version, and why he likes it. The Admin Panel is the program teachers and administrators use to set up tests, check results and print certificates.
“It’s a brand new experience — more relevant for this generation.”
Universitas Indonesia, the number one ranking university in Indonesia, had their own English placement test — but language centre managers felt that a new generation needed a new approach.