Just published in “Language Testing” are the results of a study into the predictive validity of the Duolingo English Test. It notes:
- At the postgraduate level, DET scores were related to academic results. Students with higher DET scores had more academic success. At the undergraduate level, DET scores were not related to academic success. The same is true of TOEFL and IELTS scores.
- Students accepted with DET scores enjoyed lower academic success than those accepted with TOEFL and IELTS scores.
- Given the above, perhaps higher DET cut scores are needed. Or perhaps students arriving with DET scores may need additional academic support to reach their full potential.
- The lower academic success of DET test-takers may have something to do with the test itself. Or it may have nothing to do with the test. There are many things that affect academic success.
I note:
Perhaps early access to the results of this study encouraged Duolingo to adjust its score conversion tables. They did that some months ago and schools that pay attention to that sort of thing have already adjusted their cut scores, as I’ve reported over the past eight or nine months.