I just completed the LANGUAGECERT Academic Test (at home). A few notes while everything remains fresh in my mind:
- The setup process was smooth. The “Examshield” software used by LanguageCert is pretty slick. It took me about 20 minutes to complete the login process each time (once for the speaking test + once for the rest). This highlights the value of keeping the proctoring process in-house.
- A notable feature is the use of a mobile phone as a secondary camera during the test. For added security, the test taker logs into an app and points their phone at their keyboard during the test. Duolingo does the same thing. It was surprisingly simple.
- Also: I completed a room scan using my phone instead of by carrying my heavy laptop around. This is a gamechanger. It makes the whole process much more comfortable. Seriously: if anyone from Pearson or ETS is reading this, know that your test takers will love you for switching to this method. You may not realize how annoying room scans are. Institutions will appreciate the added security.
- I could log in with my Google credentials. Joy.
- It wasn’t all perfect, though. As noted earlier, I was required to use a headset with a built-in microphone. It had to be wired (not bluetooth). I could not use my laptop speakers or mic. I could not use my nice Bose headphones with an aux cable because they don’t have a visible mic. I could not use my cheap earbuds with an in-line mic. This necessitated a shopping trip. This requirement represents an added expense for test takers.
- And: the proctoring software wasn’t able to shut down my NVIDIA junk. I kept clicking the “okay” button to shut it down with no effect. I had to close the software and do that manually. Since this happens before the proctor comes online, some test takers will certainly get stuck here and fail to complete the test. I’ve actually written about how NVIDIA junk might be the cause of many test cancellations. It is worth further study.
- And also: the instructional PDF given to test takers is way too dense. No one needs to read a six-year changelog or about irrelevant runtimes and bootstrappers.
- Customer support interactions were pleasant and speedy. Top marks for that. The proctors were polite and almost bubbly. Both aspects suggest that LanguageCert is actively studying what their competitors are doing wrong.
- The speaking test is carried out by a live interviewer, and is graded both by that person and by someone who later watches a video. This will appeal to people who worry about bias.
- I like that the “describe the chart” writing task is completed as a “report.” It can be clunky completing the similar IELTS task as a prose summary.
- One gets the impression that this test is meant to be like IELTS, but without the things that bother some test takers.
- Included were a great range of UK accents, many Australian-accented speakers and one lonely American.
- This is not a particularly easy test.
(you can read my second post on this topic over here)