Why I don’t trust language tests (and neither should you)

Summary

In this video, the speaker reflects on the nature of language learning, emphasizing that it is a fuzzy, error-driven process that doesn't lend itself well to testing. The speaker advocates for input-based learning, such as reading and listening, and encourages embracing mistakes as part of the process. While acknowledging the practicality of tests in certain contexts, such as for employers or schools, the speaker is critical of their value in measuring language proficiency. Instead, they highlight the importance of enjoying the language learning journey, suggesting that positive attitude and enjoyment are the real drivers of success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Language learning is a fuzzy, uncertain process that requires time and patience.
• 😀 Mistakes are essential in language learning as they help the brain adapt and improve.
• 😀 Tests may not accurately reflect true language ability and can be misleading.
• 😀 Language tests often focus on short-term results, which can discourage learners from engaging fully with the language.
• 😀 Engaging with content and making mistakes is more important than focusing on test results.
• 😀 Language learners often underestimate long-term progress and overestimate short-term progress.
• 😀 There is no one-size-fits-all approach to language learning, and every learner's progress is unique.
• 😀 Enjoyment of the language learning process is a key factor in success, more so than achieving high test scores.
• 😀 Language tests can create unnecessary pressure and may discourage learners who are not confident in their abilities.
• 😀 Rather than focusing on formal tests, learners should explore and enjoy the language at their own pace.
• 😀 The speaker advocates for avoiding tests unless absolutely necessary, and recommends focusing on the experience and engagement with the language.

Q & A

What is the main idea about language learning in the script?

The main idea of the script is that language learning is a fuzzy, gradual, and error-driven process. The speaker emphasizes the importance of staying active, making mistakes, and enjoying the process, rather than focusing on tests or short-term progress.

Why does the speaker believe that language learning is a 'fuzzy' process?

The speaker believes language learning is fuzzy because it is unclear how much is being learned at any given time, and learners often forget words or make mistakes, which makes it difficult to measure real progress.

How does the speaker relate language learning to setting up a new computer with fingerprint identification?

The speaker compares language learning to setting up a new computer where you repeatedly touch the fingerprint key. Just as the process is unclear but necessary for registration, language learning requires repeated effort and activity to gradually make things clearer.

What is the speaker's stance on language tests?

The speaker is skeptical of language tests, arguing that they don’t accurately reflect one’s language abilities. He believes that tests can discourage learners from making mistakes and may not provide a true measurement of language acquisition.

What are the downsides of language tests according to the speaker?

According to the speaker, language tests discourage learners from making mistakes, which is a necessary part of the learning process. They can also create negative associations with language learning, leading people to avoid learning languages altogether.

Why does the speaker say we tend to overestimate short-term progress in language learning?

The speaker suggests that people often overestimate short-term progress because they expect immediate results, similar to how people once expected quick adoption of electric vehicles. However, language learning, like other gradual processes, shows its true results over the long term.

What is the significance of enjoying the language learning process?

The speaker highlights that enjoyment is key to language learning. A positive attitude, curiosity, and confidence in eventual success all contribute to the time and effort spent on learning a language, ultimately leading to progress.

How does the speaker view the Canadian government's language learning app, Mauril?

The speaker is critical of language tests on apps like Mauril, especially when they ask users to test their level. He prefers an approach that encourages exploring content and learning at one's own pace, without focusing on tests or levels.

Why does the speaker mention TOEFL and TOEIC tests?

The speaker mentions TOEFL and TOEIC tests to emphasize that high scores on these tests do not always correlate with real language proficiency, as he has encountered individuals with high scores who struggled to communicate effectively in the language.

What is the speaker's advice regarding language tests?

The speaker advises avoiding language tests unless they are necessary for specific purposes, like an employer or school requirement. If tests are required, he recommends choosing the least expensive and fastest option. Overall, he emphasizes enjoying the language learning process instead of focusing on tests.