Problems and Prospects of Computer Assisted Language Testing: A Case Study on the Students of Northern University of Business and Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh

Sumiaya Yeasmin

Oct-Nov-Dec

Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative pilot study was to identify issues and potentials of CALT in the context of the students studying English at Northern University of Business and Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh. Quantitative research design was administered in the study whereby data was collected using random sampling technique of 70 participants (60 students and ten teachers). To obtain primary data two different sets of multiple-choice questionnaires were used and secondary data was obtained from research articles, dissertations and conference papers. The study applied various statistical tools such as Microsoft Excel to analyze the responses and was presented in Pie charts. The outcomes revealed that there were also potentials for CALT to raise various issues: accessibility, real time feedback and multimedia integration. A number of technical issues were unfolded including interruptions in internet connection, high variability in the automatic scoring mechanisms, and low technological literacy levels among the users. Findings also pointed out that compared to paper-based assessments, CALT testing was less time-consuming and offered the potential for a more thorough evaluation of language proficiency. But, due to the issues of security and restriction by automated systems, it was not reliable and accepted. The findings of the study thus called for infrastructural developments, teacher-proficiency and policies to eradicate the barriers to realize the potentials of CALT in the respective fields.

Keyword: CALT, language testing, technology, paper-based tests, computer-based tests

Research Area: ELT

Country: Bangladesh

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