High stakes english language tests such as IELTS, are being increasingly delivered on the computers. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

English language tests like IELTS is popular among people who intend to migrate to other countries in search of employment or pursue higher education. Nowadays, these tests are more delivered through
electronic medium
Suggestion
electronic media
an electronic medium
such
as the computers, rather than the traditional
paper
-based tests.
This
essay will discuss both advantages and disadvantages of
this
trend and show that, indeed,
computer
based tests are superior to
paper
based tests.
Firstly
, the most prominent advantage of the
computer
based test is that it provides the test taker with editing options
such
as cut, copy and paste.
For example
, the user need not erase or rewrite the sentences, which saves a lot of time,
thus
encouraging the user to check his response for eliminating the errors.
Secondly
, some people are concerned about their handwriting and the way they present their answer in a
paper
. Fortunately, in
computer
based tests students have to type their answers using a keyboard, on the
computer
screen.
Hence
, the benefits of
computer
delivered exams are more significant.
However
, it is accompanied by a few disadvantages
such
as the typing speed and flow of ideas. Since these tests are time restricted, it demands the person to possess high typing speed, in order to complete the test on time. But, many students lack
this
skill. To elucidate, students who have completed type writing course and obtained a certificate for the same are limited.
In addition
, some students are used to writing exams in the traditional
paper
based method. If
this
practice is changed, it would affect the flow of ideas and creativity, which is most essential for writing essays. Overall, the drawbacks pale in comparison to the benefits. To conclude,
paper
based tests which is the oldest form of exams are outdated and is now being dominated by the modern
computer
deivered
hold back to a later time
deferred
exams, as it is considered to be the easiest way by many. Clearly, the advantages of the latter outweigh its disadvantages.
Submitted by Serhii Baraniuk on

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