Historically, the TOEFL test has been given as a paper-pencil
test, mostly in form of multiple choice formats over the last thirty years or so.
Although there are other standardized tests of English certifications, however,
this TOEFL test is by far the most important recognition for non-native English
speakers to apply for further studies in English speaking countries. As a
result, about 5,000 colleges, universities, and other institutions in United
States and Canada require students from non-English speaking countries to
supply TOEFL test scores as part of the main application as evidence to show a
person’s level of proficiency in English.
In 1998, a computer-based version of the test became
available in many parts of the world. The newest generation of TOEFL test known
as TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test), was first introduced during the 2005 – 2006
academic year. As the name implies, the test is delivered by using the means of
internet connection. The test-takers which in this case “the candidates” who sit for the TOEFL iBT examination, work on the
test over a computer screen individually at official testing centers. After
all, the test is offered only on the scheduled basis when the testing dates are
conducted.
Technically,
the TOEFL iBT test is significantly different from the computer-based version
of the previous one. For one thing to know the key difference in this test is
the fact that it emphasizes a test-taker’s ability to communicate in an
academic setting. Hence, a Speaking Section in this test has been added and the
Writing Section has been further expanded.
Practically, the TOEFL iBT test specifically differs
from the previous version in the following ways below:
a. There is apparently a new Speaking Section which
tests your ability to be able to communicate orally. In that case, you record
responses that are scored by raters at ETS.
b. Taking notes in all parts of sections is allowed in
this test.
c. There are integrated/connected tasks that require
you to combine your speaking and writing skills with your reading and listening
skills.
d. Such grammar skills are tested indirectly,
particularly in the Speaking and Writing sections. To put it simply, there are
no separate grammar sections.
e. The lectures and conversations that you hear from
the audio being played are the “authentic English”. Meaning to say, the
language that you hear is more natural, like the language used in real-life
situation. Additionally, the listening section contains the pauses, repetitions,
self-corrections, and the words which sound “Uhm... or Uh...” that you would
expect to hear in a real lecture or daily conversation from the recording that
you hear.
f. Last but not least, the test is not “computer
adaptive” unlike the previous computer-based version. In other words, if you
answer a question correctly, the next part may not be so difficult. On the
contrary, if you answer a question incorrectly, the next question may not be so
easier either. All the test-takers are treated with the same question during
each administration of the test.
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