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TOEFL and IELTS | An overview
In today’s globalized world, proficiency in the English language has become a necessary skill set. Whether it’s for academic pursuits, career advancements, or immigration, standardized tests such as the TOEFL and IELTS are gaining traction as English proficiency tests. However, what many might not take into account is that performance on these tests can significantly vary across cultural backgrounds. This blog highlights the intriguing method of cross-cultural analysis to understand the impact of cultural differences on test rankings in TOEFL and IELTS.
TOEFL and IELTS | Structural Difference
The TOEFL is short for the ‘Test of English as a Foreign Language’. This test is standardized to measure English language proficiency for individuals planning on studying, working or living in inherently English-speaking regions. Additionally, it is a common admissions process requirement by universities and colleges, along with organizations for immigration purposes or applications that primarily require English as a spoken language.
A basic structure of the TOEFL test includes the following language skills:
- Reading: This section measures the ability of an individual to comprehend written English passages, which may include academic or non-academic texts
- Listening: This section evaluates one’s ability to recognize spoken English in various contexts – formal and informal
- Speaking: This assesses the ability to clearly express oneself in spoken English; the test takers are expected to respond to prompts
- Writing: To test the ability to write English well, including constructing written sentences.
The IELTS test is an acronym for ‘International English Language Testing System’ test. It is a widely recognized test required for academic and immigration purposes.
Following are a few key points of the IELTS test:
- Test format: There are two main versions of the IELTS test, including Academic and General training. The academic version is typically used for students applying to universities or for professional registrations. The General training version is used for those planning to migrate to English-speaking countries.
- Test section: It consists of four main sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections must be taken on the same day, while the Speaking section can be taken a few days before or after the other sections.
TOEFL and IELTS | Why a cross-cultural analysis?
While both the tests are inherently English proficiency measures, often required for education or immigration purposes, there exist differences between both tests in terms of scoring structures and the geographical validity. Thus, the subject of cultural differences plays a great role in preparing for the tests. It is essential to recognize how cultural differences might influence the performance of individuals from different backgrounds on the TOEFL and IELTS exams.
The TOEFL and IELTS tests are both English language proficiency exams taken by non-native English speakers. As these individuals come from diverse cultural backgrounds, their experiences, attitudes, and approaches to test-taking might vary based on varying cultural norms, educational systems, and communication styles. Cross-cultural analysis in this context refers to comparing and contrasting the behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes of individuals from different cultures in relation to their test-taking experiences.
TOEFL and IELTS | Cultural differences
Cultural differences manifest in a number of ways when it comes to language testing. Following are a few cultural differences that may be considered while taking the TOEFL and IELTS test:
Communication style
The TOEFL requires speaking assessments which align with cultures and dialects. Thus cultures that encourage more direct communication might perform better in this section. Additionally, the IELTS speaking test is an interview, which may be a comfortable section for a few individuals, while being extremely challenging for others.
Relevance in countries
TOEFL specifically sets out to test English communication ability for academic settings such as in classrooms and universities. This test is more applicable in countries with an American orientation and influence. IELTS mainly helps those wishing to work, study or migrate to native English speaking countries, such as the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA. This test is most applicable, and specifically caters to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe.
Views on individuality and collaboration
Cultures that support independent nature and expression of individuals, may fare well in independent essay writing tests. On the other hand, the IELTS test, which also includes collective efforts, may resonate more with cultures that strongly emphasize group harmony and teamwork.
Approach to formality and related structures
The TOEFL and IELTS writing tests prioritize formality and relevant structure in their range of writing styles. Albeit an advantage for individuals with more diverse writing styles, it poses problems for those who are less aware about certain formalities.
Practice of time management and limits
The TOEFL iBT is taken on a computer with fixed time limits for each section. People with strong time management skills might perform well under these conditions.
Attitude towards listening and reading
The listening and reading sections are extremely important and crucial for test takers as they lay a strong emphasis on understanding complex materials.
To conclude, it is essential to note that although cultural differences significantly vary globally, adequate test preparation and a familiarity with the test format along with a basic language proficiency will greatly help manage general stress. Test takers must focus on mitigating the cultural aspect of the assessments, focus on comprehending specific requirements and developing strong English language skills to perform well, irrespective of their cultural influences.
Key Takeaways:
- While the TOEFL and IELTS tests are inherently English proficiency measures, there are differences between both tests in terms of scoring structures and the geographical validity.
- Both proficiency tests are taken by non-native English speakers.
- It is important to note that although cultural differences significantly vary globally, adequate test preparation and a familiarity with the test format will greatly help.
- While cultural differences may play an important role in the format of giving the test, individuals must focus on their competency and ability to showcase academic proficiency.
We hope this blog was insightful. In case you have any questions or require further assistance throughout your study abroad journey, do not hesitate to reach out to us!
Liked this blog? Read more: Study abroad entrance exams | How to choose the right one!
FAQs
Q1) Are there any cultural aspects that can offer test takers an advantage on the TOEFL or IELTS?
Answer: Individuals brought up in cultures that encourage direct communication might perform better on TOEFL’s speaking section, whereas individuals belonging to cultures that value unity and teamwork may perform better in the IELTS.
Q2) How can test takers overcome cultural disparities in order to score well on the TOEFL and IELTS?
Answer: You should focus on refining English language skills and familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements of each test to overcome cultural differences. Familiarity with the test format and enough preparation can alleviate stress, allowing you to efficiently demonstrate your academic aptitude.
Q3) How do cultural differences affect TOEFL and IELTS test takers’ performance?
Answer: Communication styles vary among cultures, and this can affect the speaking and interview sections of the two examinations differently. Furthermore, the cultural relevance of the examinations can influence how comfortable people may be with the content.