Case study
The TOEIC® Listening and Reading test online: a positive innovation for test centers and candidates
The test enters a new era and becomes more accessible
The TOEIC® Listening and Reading test is modernizing with a digital version available on computers and tablets. This evolution revolutionizes testing conditions for both candidates and test centers. Céline Déboucher, Pedagogical Coordinator at Greta Val de Loire, Déborah Shair, Head of the Study Center at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Steve Gibbs, Pedagogical Director of the American Center, share their experiences.
Logistical and administrative benefits for test centers
The shift to digital has simplified administrative processes and accelerated result availability. Moreover, this transition required centers to adjust their organizational processes to fit their infrastructure and resources.
Steve, Pedagogical Director at the American Center in Aix-en-Provence, explains:
"Switching to the digital version required us to adapt our practices because we don’t have an in-house testing room. While administration is simpler, organizing remains demanding as we need to hold more sessions to accommodate all candidates in an external venue."
Previously, paper-based tests imposed significant logistical burdens, such as managing forms and providing detailed instructions to candidates. The digital version has greatly alleviated these constraints, as noted by Céline Déboucher, Pedagogical Coordinator at Greta Val de Loire:
"With the digital format, everything is faster and smoother. Instructions are clear, and we can start the test more quickly."
Déborah Shair, Head of the Study Center at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, echoes this sentiment:
"For us, organization has become much simpler. There are no more paper forms to manage, and the risk of errors is eliminated."
An improved candidate experience
The digital format significantly enhances test conditions for candidates.
Steve elaborates:
"Candidates particularly appreciate being able to leave the room as soon as they finish their test, which is a real advantage over the paper version."
The quality of equipment also plays a key role, as highlighted by Céline Déboucher:
"With the computer and tablet version, candidates use high-quality headphones for the Listening section. This allows them to focus fully on the audio recordings without distractions from a noisy environment."
Déborah Shair emphasizes the positive psychological impact of faster results:
Candidates appreciate knowing their results almost immediately. This reduces their stress and allows them to quickly plan their next steps, whether applying for a job or continuing their education.
Anticipation and flexibility: keys to a smooth transition
For the centers interviewed, the success of this digital transition hinges on good preparation and adaptability. While adjustments were necessary during the initial sessions, these experiences helped refine and streamline processes moving forward.
Steve, Pedagogical Director at the American Center in Aix-en-Provence, shares his experience:
"The first sessions helped us identify areas for improvement, like keyboards going into sleep mode or optimizing tablet configurations. We also decided to use two different networks in the room to ensure a reliable connection."
Déborah Shair confirms the importance of this approach:
"Once the technical setup is secured, the benefits far outweigh any challenges."
An eco-friendly and responsible choice
The shift to digital also aligns with an eco-conscious approach. By eliminating paper forms, test centers reduce their environmental footprint.
Déborah Shair affirms:
"Switching to digital reduces waste while offering a faster and more modern solution. It also meets the expectations of younger generations."
A successful digital transition
By adopting the digital version, test centers modernize their operations and provide a smoother experience for candidates.
Steve sums up his experience at the American Center in three words:
"Modern, efficient, but logistical."
Déborah Shair adds:
"Efficient, simplified, intuitive."
Céline Déboucher shares a similar view, describing this transition as a necessary step to meet current expectations.
This new format stands out as a modern solution tailored to the needs of today’s candidates and test centers. Faster, more comfortable, and more environmentally friendly, the online TOEIC® test transforms the language testing experience.