International Journal of Language & Linguistics

A Critical Review of the Computer-based English Listening and Speaking Test
Cecily Ran Liao

Abstract
The Computer-based English Listening and Speaking Test (CELST) is a large-scale high-stakes norm-referenced test that supports the selection of candidates within Guangdong province for admission to Chinese higher educational institutes. Because of its popularity and important use for the test takers, it is crucial to examine how much the test is useful for its purpose, which determines its consequences and development in the future. The current study aims to put the CELST into the lens of Bachman and Palmer’s (1996) usefulness model, drawing on its six features (i.e., reliability, construct validity, authenticity, interactiveness, impact, and practicality) to provide a balanced assessment on thetest usefulness. The analysis suggests that the CELST generally meets the usefulness standard. The combination of its six qualities indicates an acceptable level of usefulness. Based on the findings, some suggestions are also given for the test design and for future research to validate the test.

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