Monday, March 29, 2010

Technology in testing: the present and the future

In Alderson's article, he talks about how the use of IT for language testing is begining to emerge into this mulitimedia world. More and more tests are carried out using cd-roms, students can now learn and be assessed just by using the computer, this is most popular for distance learning students. I think one advantage of this is that it can accomodate many people's busy schedules, they can be assessed and complete assignments just by using their own computer which can save a lot of time. The downside of it is that it is hard to speak to classmates or even your teacher face to face. Sometimes people gets confused and may convey the wrong message just by communicating through the internet. And if any instant help is needed that could be a struggle too.
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3 comments:

  1. hotriceMarch 29, 2010 at 8:03 AM

    I still believe face-to-face meeting trumps everything.

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  2. ClaireLApril 4, 2010 at 9:33 AM

    I think testing by using a computer is only suitable for some particular question types, such as MC, matching. It almost works on reading test. But it is not quite suitable for writing an essay. Marking on the computer is quite difficult for teachers. Teachers also cannot access students' speaking ability thr the computer

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  3. AlexApril 24, 2010 at 4:01 AM

    Using technology in testing has its own value. Think about the admission test, they may be hundred or even thousand candidates to take the test. Using technology in testing can save time and money. First, the answer sheet can be scanned into the computer and marked by the comptuer. It saves teachers' time. Also, the school does not need to employ more teachers to mark the paper. It saves money. Most importantly, the results can be generated in an hour or two. The only thing we need to think about is the validity and reliability of the test.

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