Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, and its English Language Learning business recently revealed findings from a social perception survey conducted by the Pearson Test of English, an English language test used for study, work, and migration visas. According to the survey, more than three-fifths (62%) of English test takers in India believe that their Indian accent will negatively impact their speaking outcomes, and nearly three-fourths (74%) believe that their appearance might impact their test score when a human examiner is present.
The study demonstrates stark insights into test takers’ perceptions of biases, notably those connected to looks, accents, and appearances. It highlights the need for fairer systems that focus entirely on learners’ knowledge and abilities. This is especially important in high-stakes circumstances, such as English language tests, which might affect people’s futures.
Following are the insights from the survey
Different Biases, Different Treatments
As per the survey, nearly 6 out of 10 (59%) respondents believe they will be treated differently based on their skin colour, calling out their fear of unconscious favouritism extended toward people with lighter skin. Almost 2 in 3 (64%) feel they can create a wrong impression based on their dress. These perceptions are especially strong among test-takers in Maharashtra, where 67% carry this belief. Job roles and educational background are also feared to impact how people are treated, with 7 in 10 respondents, especially those in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, believing they will be treated with more respect if they have a prestigious job or a strong educational background.
Societal Perceptions Can Impact Test Scores
The impact of unconscious bias runs deep, especially in a diverse country like India, where how you speak is perceived as a reflection of how smart or knowledgeable you are. As per the survey, over 3 out of 5 (63%) test takers, especially in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, believe that removing their Indian accents while speaking English will positively impact test scores. One’s external appearance is also thought to impact outcomes. Punjab feels this most strongly, with 77% of respondents from the state believing appearance can impact the outcomes of their speaking test.
Changing One’s Real Self to Make the Right Impression
Nearly 2 in 3 (64%) respondents think having a certain accent can help them get a better score on the speaking test. 35% of respondents, including those in Tamil Nadu, believe an American accent contributes to better test scores, while 21%, especially those in Uttar Pradesh, say a British accent will play to their advantage. Over 3 in 4 (76%) also believe that dressing up formally can create a ‘professional’ experience, leading to higher scores.
Methodology
The results are based on a survey of 1,000 respondents who have taken or are planning to take an English proficiency test for work, study, or migration purposes. 96% of the respondents had experienced an English language test with a human examiner.
Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning, Pearson India, commented on the recent survey:
For many years in India, people’s insecurities with their accents and appearances have determined their opportunities, ultimately impacting their earning potential. We have seen this play out even in the most critical situations where people’s futures are often at stake. The English language testing and the broader global mobility space are not immune to these challenges. However, at Pearson, we are transforming this landscape. Our evaluation system leverages responsible AI and language experts to focus solely on assessing language proficiency, free from face-to-face interviews with technology that recognizes more than 125 accents. By designing a test that eliminates biases and emphasizes English skills, we aim to foster a positive and inclusive environment where everyone has a fair opportunity to chase their dreams.
About Pearson
Pearson aims to assist individuals in learning so that they can live the lives they want. The organization believes that every learning opportunity represents a personal breakthrough. That is why Pearson’s 18,000 workers are dedicated to creating vibrant and rewarding learning experiences with a real-world effect. It provides consumers in approximately 200 countries with online content, examinations, qualifications, and data.
