Technology Overview

The patented Ordinate ® testing system is based on of years of research in speech processing, statistical modeling, linguistics, and testing theory. The technology uses a speech processing system that is specifically designed to analyze speech from native and non-native speakers of English. In addition to recognizing words, the system also locates and evaluates relevant segments, syllables, and phrases in speech. The Ordinate system then uses statistical modeling techniques to assess the spoken performance.

Independent studies have shown that  Versant  tests are more objective, and more reliable than today's best human-rated tests, including one-on-one oral proficiency interviews. Using criteria developed by expert linguists, the Ordinate testing system scores candidate responses to test items, which have been validated with reference to human judgments of proficiency, fluency, and pronunciation.

Grading Technology
Validation / Norming

Technical Reports

Versant for English Technical Manual
Versant for Spanish Technical Manual