The Reading Comprehension is an adaptive test that provides insight into a candidate’s reading comprehension and understanding of texts in a relatively short time.
Application The Reading Comprehension can be used in selection and advisory situations. For example, it may be desirable to use the test before administering one or more intelligence tests or personality tests: this helps determine whether the candidate has the reading level needed to understand the instructions of the other tests.
Advantages of adaptive testing Every candidate receives different items, matched to their level. Simply put, when someone answers a question incorrectly, an easier question follows, and when someone answers a question correctly, a somewhat more difficult question follows. In this way the candidate’s level is determined while they take the test. This avoids candidates with a lower level receiving questions that are far too difficult, and candidates with a high level receiving questions that are far too easy. The advantage is that we can determine someone’s level more precisely and more quickly.
In practice, this means that every candidate gets a different test. The Reading Comprehension currently has a total of 119 texts (with 4 associated questions) at its disposal, from which the system always selects the most suitable one.
Items Each item consists of a text with four questions. In total, the candidate is given 3 minutes per text to answer the four questions.
Reporting In the report, the candidate’s reading level is reported back on the basis of the answers given, using the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR is an internationally recognised European framework of level descriptions for modern (foreign) languages, and distinguishes six categories:
By reporting the reading level in terms of the CEFR framework, it is easy for the candidate to understand what their reading level actually means and what can be improved. For any (follow-up) courses, the CEFR at the reading level achieved in the Reading Comprehension immediately provides a useful frame of reference.
Quick Facts Language NL | EN Norm group Advice, Selection Time 20–25 minutes Credits 100
