Meeting changing language learning needs in France
Effective English speaking and listening skills are central to success in international business, and are crucial to taking a full part in business meetings and conference calls. Interface Business Languages, based in Paris, has worked with over 50,000 students from a wide range of companies to effectively improve their business English.
Empowering employees with life-long learning
While this has primarily been through referrals from company training departments, an increasing number of students are now organising and choosing their own training, thanks to the Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF). This is a personal training account, funded by the French Government, and open to all those over 16 who are either in work, or looking for a job. They receive their own training budget to use on accredited courses, with the aim of developing skills and enabling life-long learning. Courses can now be booked online, making it as easy as possible to access training.
‘The rise of the CPF has dramatically changed language training in France,’ explains David Stenning, Director, Interface Business Languages. ‘Employees are often now our direct customers, alongside our traditional relationships with company training departments. Every person has differing needs, and it is vital that we can deliver to each of them.’
The CPF mandates that every course concludes with an obligatory test, which must be taken to release funding. As part of its strategy for addressing the changing market, Interface Business Languages has adopted Linguaskill for its testing needs, replacing Cambridge English’s previous test, BULATS.
Moving to Linguaskill
‘There are multiple language tests available, but Linguaskill stands out’
‘The fact that it is online and adaptive makes it quick and convenient for students to complete, and provides a better, more accurate result. Additionally, providing results aligned to the CEFR scale adds to reassurance that scores are relevant and realistic.’
Using Linguaskill at the end of each course enables Interface Business Languages to deliver benefits to both individual candidates and company training managers. It provides a clear, easy-to-understand result that shows a measurable return on investment for businesses purchasing training, while enabling individuals to meet the requirements of the CPF.
A focus on simplicity – for candidates and administrators
From an administrative point of view, Linguaskill has been designed to be easy to use, with results provided within 48 hours. After just a few tests, Interface Business Languages staff have been impressed by Linguaskill, finding it simple to administer and delivering a positive experience for candidates.
‘In our experience so far we can see clear benefits in Linguaskill,’ explains David. ‘Overall, the tests are logical and easy to navigate by candidates, and there is a wealth of free preparation materials that our students are finding extremely helpful.’
The company is particularly interested in the ability to test skills such as listening and speaking, as these are competencies that the majority of its candidates are looking to improve, and are not always covered by other tests.
‘The backing and stamp of the University of Cambridge is an extremely strong endorsement in the business world. Working with Linguaskill therefore helps our students to develop the language skills they need for long-term success in their careers,’ concludes David.
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