Newsroom
Computer-based options give more flexibility for teachers
2 April 2007
English learners are to have the choice of a string of new computer-based versions of the world-renowned University of Cambridge ESOL exams from this year (2007).
More exam dates each year and the opportunity to make later entries will give teachers more flexibility in making sure learners are entered for exams at the right time for them. There will also be faster access to results, with scores made available online just three weeks after the exam. CD-Rom practice materials are to be made available by Cambridge ESOL as well as by a number of major publishers.
Computer-based exams are to be offered as a choice for test-takers alongside the ‘paper and pen’ versions at exam centres throughout the world. Computer-based versions of the BEC (Business English Certificate) at Preliminary and Vantage levels will be offered from May 2007. Computer-based KET (Key English Test) will initially be available on five dates during the year, also starting from May 2007. The badge of professional knowledge for teachers of English to speakers of other languages, TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test), is to be offered from September 2007. Computer-based PET has been available since 2006, and eight dates are due to be offered in 2007.
Sean Hayde, Assistant Director at Cambridge ESOL, said: “In themselves the exams are exactly the same, and they lead to the same internationally-recognised Cambridge ESOL certificate. Extensive research has been carried out to make sure this is the case.
“The feedback from trials of the new versions has shown that test-takers see computers as a very practical tool. The on-screen navigation through the test is easy; test-takers can edit their answers on-screen; and the use of headphones for the Listening element of the test allows them to adjust the volume to suit their needs.”
The computer-based exams are protected by state-of-the-art security encryption and on-screen lock-down facility.
