The Equivalence of Direct and Semi-Direct Speaking Tests documents a
comparability study of direct (face-to-face) and semi-direct (language
laboratory) versions of the speaking component of the access test: an
English language test designed in the 1990s as part of the selection
process for immigration to Australia. In the study the issue of test
equivalence is explored using a range of quantitative and qualitative
evidence including test scores, test taker language output and feedback
from various 'players' in the test process including members of the
development team, test candidates, interviewers and raters. The findings
have important implications for the use of direct and semi-direct
speaking tests in various high-stakes contexts such as immigration and
university entrance. As such this will be of interest to policy-makers
and administrators as well as language teachers and language testing
researchers.