TPS - Duolingo English Test (DEP)

Advantages & Disadvantages

 There are a number of advantages and disadvantages for choosing the Duolingo English Test. You should be  aware of them before making a decision. First, consider the following issues before deciding whether these advantages are even important to you.

Issues to Consider

​At TPS, we always welcome new business, but we encourage you to think carefully before deciding to enroll in tutorials, even if you’re eager to get started. There are several important factors to consider beforehand:


  1. How familiar am I with this test?

• There are now practice tests  available that you can take to gauge your understanding of the format and content.
  

  2.  How would I assess my sub-skills (e.g., writing, reading, listening, speaking)?

• Reflect on how often  you’ve been practicing essays and identify your strengths and weaknesses. It might be helpful to take a practice test before approaching a tutor. This will allow the tutor to assess your current level more accurately. Key areas of this test include noun-object identification and picture description. Do you feel confident in these areas?
  

    3.   How much time can I dedicate to self-study?

• While some areas require professional guidance, others can be significantly improved through self-preparation. Generally, preparing for the Duolingo test takes less time compared to most other standardized tests.
  

   4  Am I comfortable with a fully computer-based test and assessment?

• Many argue that Duolingo is better suited for individuals with clear pronunciation and strong expressive skills, as the test relies  entirely on computer-based evaluation.
  

   5. Do I struggle with responding quickly in English?

•  Even if you have strong English skills, this test often requires rapid responses, which can be challenging for some test-takers.
  
• Take these factors into account as you make your decision. Proper preparation and self-assessment can help you determine whether tutorials are the right choice for you.
  

Advantages and Disadvantages

Before I outline what I believe are the pros and cons of taking the Duolingo test, please keep in mind that these are just my opinions. It’s essential to conduct your own research and make an informed decision. That said, I offer these insights based on my extensive experience with other tests and a deep understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

Advantages:

1. Lower cost at $49 USD (approximately $63 CAD/test).
    While this isn’t pocket change, it’s a significant saving compared to IELTS, which costs over $300, and TOEFL,which costs               $300,and TOEFL,which costs $245.

2.The convenience of taking the test from home.
     A home environment is generally less stressful, making it an appealing option for many test-takers.

3. Flexibility in test timing.

• The ability to take the test at any time is a major advantage, especially for night owls who perform better during evening hours.

4. Shorter test duration.

•  At approximately 1 hour, the Duolingo test is much shorter than IELTS and TOEFL, which take around 3 hours. This saves both  time and energy.

5. Objective assessment.

• Your English skills are evaluated by a computer algorithm, reducing the likelihood of bias in the speaking and writing. This  minimizes the impact of any single error or weak area in your performance.

6. Multiple opportunities to succeed.

• If you perform poorly on one task, you’re likely to encounter similar tasks again, giving you a chance to improve your score.

Disadvantages

1. 1. Limited self-study practice materials.
2.     * Unlike IELTS and TOEFL, which offer a range of practice resources, Duolingo has fewer materials available for self- study preparation.
   
3. 2. Technical requirements can be restrictive.
       A stable internet connection of at least 1 Mbps is required, which may be challenging in smaller communities or with older computers. Additionally, you need sufficient memory to download the app, as well as a functioning camera and microphone.
   
4. 3. Quick speaking tasks with limited response time.
      The speaking tasks require rapid responses, which can be challenging. While IELTS Stage 2 allows more time, TOEFL’s independent speaking tasks are similarly demanding.
   
5. 4. Ungraded portions create uncertainty in final assessment.
      The ungraded speaking and writing samples sent to academic institutions add an element of unpredictability. Even if  you  achieve an adequate score, your performance in these sections could still affect your placement. In contrast, TOEFL and IELTS provide clear, definitive results.
   

Registering for a Tutor

If these are times that are suitable for your schedule,  go to the registration page or email at [email protected]. We do try to update changes immediately but please confirm anyways with an email or phone us at 613 447 1622.

​Lessons are 1-2 hours (minimum) at $60/hr or $120/lesson. After the first class, 4 subsequent classes must be paid in advance.

With online marking, although we encourage as much writing as possible, we do cap submitted compositions at 5 writing per lesson

You may add students for no charge in the lesson but writings by other students will not be marked unless you submit them as your own.

Technical Needs for Duolingo Online Tutoring 

TPS online classes are fully equipped with the technical capabilities to share screens and audio. All we require from you is a Zoom or Skype account and a working microphone. While headsets are recommended for better audio quality, they are not mandatory. We also advise ensuring that your setup meets the same technical requirements outlined on the Duolingo test website for optimal performance.

More Information

Look carefully through tutor and student obligations and also the  Tutoring Course page to see what is expected of both parties. If you are unfamiliar with test visit the Duolingo exam page and if you plan to do a bit of self-study, check out the study tips, and a blog which contains free practice exams