IELTS Online is the newest addition to the IELTS portfolio. This remote administration of the test complements the existing in-centre versions – IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper – and allows test-takers to take IELTS anywhere, providing they have a stable internet connection and a quiet, private space. Regardless of the delivery mode, the fundamental quality considerations remain the same. IELTS Online must maintain existing standards through accurate, fair and secure assessment practices, and avoid new irrelevant variance in scores or unintended consequences, thereby yielding reliable and meaningful measurement, without bias.
Here we provide an overview of the multiple sources of validity evidence currently available, relevant test security measures, and the upcoming research agenda for the IELTS Research Group.