High stakes English language tests, such as IELTS, are increasingly being delivered on the computer.Do the advantages of computer-based testing outweigh the disadvantages?Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your know
Computers in general and technology as a whole have made their way into our lives over the past few years.
This
is also
true for English language
tests such
as IELTS, which now offer candidates the ability
to appear for computer
delivered tests. It is agreed that the pros of computer
delivered tests outweigh the cons. The most direct connection of these tests with the real world
and their ability
to furnish scores quickly, back up this
claim.
Firstly
, computer
based tests are
closer to the real Suggestion
is
world
than paper based tests. One of the goals for testing, is to measure the candidates' ability
to use the language
in real world
scenarios, and since technology and computers play a major role in every walk of life, computer
based tests are closer to actual applications of language
. For instance
, if a candidate is able to write an essay in their own handwriting perfectly, but they fail to type it out on a computer
, their ability
to use the language
in professional, actual life settings is hindered and undermine the authenticity of the test. Therefore
, computer
delivered tests are closer to the real world
.
Secondly
, computer
delivered tests, announce the results and give out scores much quicker than paper delivered tests. For example
, the expected time for scores announcement for the IELTS' paper based test is 3-4 weeks, whereas, the period for computer
delivered test is well within a week. This
feature is helpful and attractive for a plethora of people, including students who generally do not have the luxury of waiting for weeks to secure admissions based on such
tests. Hence
, it is advantageous to opt for computer
delivered tests.
To conclude, computer
delivered tests, offer many advantages over other kinds of tests. Their ability
to conform to real world
uses, and quick turnaround for those in need, fortify this
statement. Accordingly
, in my opinion, computer
delivered tests should be the way forward with high stakes English language
tests.Submitted by musab.mehboob on
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