A recent survey conducted by Pearson has shed light on significant concerns among Indian English test-takers regarding the impact of their accent and appearance on their test scores. Over 62% of participants expressed apprehension that their Indian accent could negatively affect their speaking test results. In addition, more than 74% believed that their physical appearance might influence outcomes when assessed by human examiners, raising important questions about the fairness of traditional assessment methods used in visa-related English proficiency tests.
The survey, which involved 1,000 individuals across India, revealed that 96% of respondents had been evaluated by human examiners. It also uncovered widespread concerns about potential biases. Approximately 59% of participants feared discrimination based on skin tone, with many suspecting an unconscious bias in favor of lighter skin. Additionally, 64% were worried that their attire could lead to a negative impression during the assessment, a sentiment that was particularly pronounced in Maharashtra. The survey also highlighted a perception that individuals with prestigious jobs or strong educational backgrounds were given more respect during evaluations, with 70% of respondents, particularly from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, sharing this concern.
Test-takers also expressed concerns about the influence of accents on their scores. Around 64% of respondents believed that adopting a specific accent could improve their results. Among these, 35% thought an American accent would provide an advantage, while 21% preferred a British accent. Shradha Marian, an IELTS trainer, noted that students frequently asked whether speaking in an American or British accent would improve their scores, illustrating the widespread belief that accent plays a significant role in test outcomes.
These concerns extend beyond language assessments and can influence broader opportunities, including employment prospects. In response to these challenges, Pearson has introduced an AI-driven assessment system aimed at minimizing human biases in English proficiency evaluations. This system, which recognizes over 125 accents, focuses solely on language skills, ensuring a fairer and more impartial assessment process.
Despite these concerns, India continues to perform well in global English proficiency rankings. According to Pearson’s Global English Proficiency Report, India’s average English score stands at 52, slightly below the global average of 57, but its speaking score is 57, above the global average of 54. Within India, Delhi ranks highest in English proficiency, followed by Rajasthan. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing biases in English assessments and ensuring that the evaluation process is fair and inclusive for all candidates.
In conclusion, while India’s proficiency in English remains strong, concerns about bias in traditional assessment methods highlight the need for a more equitable approach. The shift toward AI-driven testing by Pearson represents a significant step toward ensuring that language assessments are based solely on language skills, offering a more inclusive and impartial evaluation for all test-takers.
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