Authoring Features There is little sophistication in the handling of responses. Test-takers are given clear instructions on how to record their performances. Responses are stored in a file. During the test there is no possibility for learners to check whether or not what they have spoken has been recorded properly. Figure 1 Screen layout cannot be changed and all tests must follow the same procedure using the same given set of screens.
All screens are in English and there is no way to change the written instructions.
This can be remedied somewhat by supplementing the written instructions with oral instructions in a language the test-taker does understand, though that itself may engender some confusion. When authoring tests, it falls to instructors to carry out instructions properly. They can preview questions by pressing the preview button. There is a demo test, but this is more for the benefit of the teacher than for the learner. As is pointed out in the OTS manual, teaching speaking without testing it is not fair to students.