Pearson, (FTSE: PSON.L) the world’s lifelong learning company and its English Language Learning business, today revealed insights from a social perception survey conducted by the Pearson Test of English – its English language test for study, work, and migration visas. The survey unveils that over 3 in 5 (62%) English test takers in India believe that their Indian accent would negatively impact their speaking test outcomes, and almost 3 in 4 (74%) believe that their appearance might impact their test score when a human examiner is involved. Revealing stark insights about test takers’ perceptions of biases, particularly those related to looks, accents, and appearances. It highlights the need for fairer systems that focus solely on learners’ knowledge and abilities. This is even more critical in high-stakes situations, like English language tests, that can impact people’s futures.
Different biases, different treatment
As per the survey, nearly 6 out of 10 (59%) respondents believe that they will be treated differently based on their skin colour, calling out their fear of unconscious favouritism extended toward people with lighter skin. Almost 2 in 3 (64%) believe that they can create a wrong impression based on how they dress. These perceptions are especially strong among test-takers in Maharashtra, where 67% carry this belief. Job roles and educational background are also feared to impact how people are treated, with 7 in 10 respondents, especially those in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, believing they will be treated with more respect if they have a prestigious job or a strong educational background.
Societal perceptions can impact test scores
The impact of unconscious bias runs deep, especially in a diverse country like India where how you speak is perceived as a reflection of how smart or knowledgeable you are. As per the survey, over 3 out of 5 (63%) test takers, especially in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, believe that removing their Indian accents while speaking English will positively impact test scores. One’s external appearance is also believed to impact outcomes. Punjab feels this most strongly, with 77% of respondents from the state believing appearance can impact outcomes of their speaking test.
Changing one’s real self to make the right impression
Nearly 2 in 3 (64%) respondents think that having a certain accent can help them get a better score in the speaking test. 35% of respondents, including those in Tamil Nadu, believe an American accent contributes to better test scores, while 21%, especially those in Uttar Pradesh say a British accent will play to their advantage. Over 3 in 4 (76%) also believe that they can create a ‘professional’ experience by dressing up formally, leading to higher scores.
Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning, Pearson India, says, “For many years in India, people’s insecurities with their accents, and appearances have determined the opportunities available to them, ultimately impacting their earning potential. We have seen this play out even in the most critical situations where people’s futures are often at stake. The English language testing and the broader global mobility space are not immune to these challenges. However, at Pearson, we are transforming this landscape. Our evaluation system leverages responsible AI and language experts and to focus solely on assessing language proficiency, free from face-to-face interviews with technology that recognises more than 125 accents. By designing a test that eliminates biases and emphasizes English skills, we aim to foster a positive and inclusive environment where everyone has a fair opportunity to chase their dreams.”
Pearson Test of English’s new campaign channels these insights to emphasise the need for fairer English language testing. By spotlighting how people try to change how they look or speak to fit social moulds, the campaign seeks to inspire a discussion on creating fair, bias-free environments where ability and potential take centre stage. Take a look at the campaign and join the #PTEForFairness movement here
