Recently, an Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) English listening test (UMBI) which was held on February 16 went viral on social media after netizens questioned the credibility of a TikToker who was allegedly hired to conduct the voice-over.
It had allegedly caused candidates to struggle during the test because the actor spoke too fast with unclear pronunciation.
The issue has since blown up on social media as netizens took to the platforms to condemn the examination board as well as the influencer.
However, the Examination Board has recently denied using a social media influencer as a speaker for the SPM English listening test.
In a statement released yesterday (February 19), the Board explained that speakers used in the construction of UMBI SPM 2022 consisted of teachers, lecturers, and school and university students who are proficient in English.
“Those involved have also been trained ahead of the development process for UMBI SPM year 2022 items or instruments.”
“In this regard, the Board is confident that the quality of the audio material and 2022 SPM listening paper remains intact. The Board will ensure fairness and that the interests of candidates taking the SPM examination in 2022 are safeguarded,” it said.
According to the Examination Board, the audio material and the questions in the listening test were prepared in various forms namely multiple-choice questions, multiple-form questions and limited subjective responses.
“Therefore, UMBI SPM requires candidates to listen, analyse the context of the situation and understand the overall meaning of the audio material,” read the statement.
“The Board also ensures that items or instruments constructed reach the level of administrability, validity, reliability, and authority, The matter is given attention to ensure that the item or instrument is fair to all candidates,” according to the Board.
“In addition, pre-tests were also conducted with the participation of students in different locations, urban and rural, to check whether the items or instruments are suitable and meet the specified quality level.”
Stay tuned for updates!
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