International English Language Testing System

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The International English Language Testing System is an assessment tool which teaches individuals who need to study or work in other countries where English is the primary language of communication (F... orm, 2009). The program was started by the University of Cambridge in collaboration with the British Council and IELTS Australia. The International English Language System is recognized by many countries including Australia, the United States, UK, Canada, and many others. According to Cook (2016), many professional bodies, agencies and immigration organizations recommend this proficiency test for non-native citizens. The test is offered in over 500 learning centres which are distributed in over 125 countries. IELTS is available in two main formats. The academic training format evaluates whether the student can study using English as the mode of language, at an undergraduate or postgraduate education level (Form, 2009). The general training format assesses the language skills of the student in the social and workplace settings. The general training mode is recommended for non-English speakers vacating to the UK, US, Australia, and New Zealand for work purposes or other social reasons (Form, 2009). The essay will discuss the benefits and disadvantages of IELTS, the impact of the high-stakes test on the test-takers and other stakeholders, its backwash, validity, reliability, and its educational, social and cultural perspectives. [Show More]

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