We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new research project funded by the IELTS partners.
The study will investigate the speaking component of IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, and will compare test taker anxiety in face-to-face vs online settings. Our goal is to explore how anxiety manifests itself in different parts of the exam and how it may impact on speaking performance.
Using biosensor measurements such as electrocardiography electrodermal response, we aim to provide valuable insights into the extent that anxiety may interfere with the processes of the target construct of speaking, and garner validation evidence for remotely delivered speaking assessments.
Our team will also break new grounds methodologically, as the use of biosensor equipment in language assessment research is still in its infancy.
Thanks to the team at the EVM Research Laboratories at the University of Innsbruck for providing us with the necessary biosensor equipment!