The Password English language tests
The Password English language tests have been designed by the Centre for Research in English Language Learning and Assessment (CRELLA) at the University of Bedfordshire. Since its inception, CRELLA, directed by Professor Cyril Weir, has established an international reputation as a centre for development of and research into English language testing. Members of the centre have published widely on language testing and assessment issues and carry out pioneering research into the nature of English language proficiency and its measurement.
The Password approach involves a commitment to quality and innovation in test design, administration and validation. This approach is:
- based on current understandings of language use
- supported by a programme of empirical validation
- grounded in test security considerations
Question writers for Password tests are DELTA qualified English language teachers and each individual question is subject to scrutiny by the CRELLA team both before and after being trialled. All questions are trialled with at least 250 learners from the intended target population of test-takers. Once accepted for inclusion in a test, the question is kept under review and periodically replaced or rested.
Password tests are set apart from other tests used for similar purposes by their commitment to continuous refreshment and validation. There are regular reports on the performance of the test material, and systems established for the routine monitoring of differential item functioning and related issues of test bias.
For information about the design, development and reliability of Password, please click on the document below, written by Dr Anthony Green of CRELLA.
Document: The Password Test - Design Development and Reliability (941 kb)
For additional information about the reliability of Password please click on the research paper below.
Document: Password Predictive Study by NCUK (764 kb)
Password has been benchmarked to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages on the basis of test design procedures, standards setting exercises and empirical test data.
For information about the alignment of Password to the CEFR, please click on the document below.
Document: Relating Password to the Common European Framework (72 kb)
The Password Maths test
Password Maths has been researched and designed by Dr. Harriet Jones from the University of East Anglia. Dr. Jones is an expert in the transition of students from UK sixth forms and overseas study into university and has used a simple paper version of the new test for many years at the University.
Password Maths tests candidates’ knowledge of arithmetic, percentages, rations, algebra and re-arranging equations, geometry, statistics and calculus.
The Password Maths test accurately tests the mathematical knowledge of test-takers, and is intended for candidates with knowledge around GCSE level.