The demand for English proficiency is only expected to increase as industries become more interconnected. “English is already a mandatory subject in over 150 countries,” Ravindran points out, underscoring its global importance.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way English is taught and learned. With the advent of Generative AI (GAI), learning is becoming more dynamic, personalised and relevant to real-world scenarios. We spoke with Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India, about how these advancements are transforming education, and what they mean for students, educators and professionals worldwide.

AI’s role in language learning

Ravindran believes that Generative AI brings a transformative impact by creating more engaging and contextually relevant learning experiences. While traditional AI applications have focused on grading essays, scoring pronunciation and predicting academic outcomes, “GAI is stepping beyond by simulating real-life conversations. It doesn’t stop at role-playing exercises; AI adapts content to the learner’s proficiency level, offering feedback on aspects like grammar, pronunciation, and fluency,” he explains. 

In a world where businesses are increasingly operating across borders, English has become essential for career growth, particularly in AI-driven industries. “English proficiency is a critical asset,” Ravindran notes, pointing to research indicating that over 51% of learners improve their language skills to enhance career opportunities. Poor communication can have significant financial repercussions, with inefficiencies reportedly costing organisations up to $62.4 million each year.

The tech sector, in particular, relies heavily on English for collaboration and innovation. “English is often the default language for coding, documentation, and technical publications,” Ravindran says. He also points out a new trend: “With Generative AI, we can now write programmes by describing them in English. The better you are at English, the better prompt engineer you can be,” he adds, highlighting the increasing importance of English as a critical skill in AI and programming.

The indispensable role of educators in an AI-enhanced classroom

While AI can streamline tasks like lesson planning and grading, Ravindran emphasises that human educators remain central to the process. “Our approach at Pearson is not about replacing teachers but about enhancing their role,” he says. AI tools are designed to work alongside educators, enabling them to deliver more tailored and meaningful experiences.

“Educators play a crucial role in interpreting and adapting AI-generated materials to the unique needs of their students,” Ravindran explains, emphasising that human guidance fosters critical thinking and provides the emotional support that AI cannot replicate.

The future of English proficiency

The demand for English proficiency is only expected to increase as industries become more interconnected. “English is already a mandatory subject in over 150 countries,” Ravindran points out, underscoring its global importance. In response to this trend, Pearson is expanding its testing infrastructure, including launching one of its largest Pearson VUE testing centres in Chandigarh, with a capacity of 14,000 tests per month.

As the world moves toward a digital-first approach to education, Ravindran is confident that AI, paired with human expertise, will continue to revolutionise English language learning, equipping learners with the skills needed for success in an increasingly globalised job market.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/Financial Express

Synopsis

The UK is a favored destination for international students, boasting a robust education system and a variety of courses. With 18 universities in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings 2024, understanding required entrance exams is crucial for admission. Key English proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, each with varying score requirements depending on the university and program.

The United Kingdom (UK) is a popular destination for international students, thanks to its strong education system, wide variety of courses, and rich cultural experiences. Notably, 18 UK universities are ranked among the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

It is important to know the entrance exams you need to pass to study in the UK, as they are necessary for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and degree programs.

The minimum score requirements for the exams change depending on the university, course, or program level.

The popular English proficiency tests to attempt for studying in UK are IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL. If you want to study medical courses in UK, then you can take exams such as BMAT, GAMSAT, and HPAT Ulster. To pursue mathematical-related courses in UK, you can take MAT or STEP.

English Language Proficiency Exams

Language proficiency is the first requirement for international students looking to advance their applications to study in the UK. As English is an official language, most universities expect applicants to have a strong command of the language to participate effectively in lectures and discussions. Therefore, achieving good scores in these tests is crucial for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the UK. Below are various standardized exams to evaluate your English proficiency:

1.  IELTS - International English Language Testing System

2.  TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language

3.  PTE - Pearson Test of English

4.  Cambridge English Language Assessments

The IELTS test has two types - IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Those who want to study in English-speaking countries like the UK, can take the IELTS test. The IELTS test fee for Indian students is INR 17,000. The minimum IELTS band score for a UK student visa is between 4.0 - 5.5. However, the minimum IELTS score requirements can be higher for each university, for example, top universities like the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge expect between 7.0 - 7.5 band score.

TOEFL

The TOEFL iBT is accepted by all of the UK universities, including the Russell Group of Universities. It has three types: paper-based, computer-based and an internet version. The minimum TOEFL score required for top universities in UK is between 100 - 110. And, the minimum score required for low-ranking universities is lower than 70. The cost of the TOEFL test in UK is $245.

Below are the TOEFL iBT score requirements (section-wise) set by the UK Home Office for immigration purposes:

1.  Total score: 72

2.  Reading: 18

3.  Listening: 17

4.  Writing: 17

5.  Speaking: 20

Note : It is for the University Degree Level Courses - B2 Level.

PTE
PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test, accepted by 99% of UK universities. A minimum PTE score to get admission to UK universities is between 50-63. If your goal is to pursue a higher education in UK, you can choose the PTE Academic test. The standard PTE Academic test fee is Rs. 15,900/-. It has an automated scoring system which eliminates human biases during evaluation.

Cambridge English Language Assessments
Cambridge English language assessment is one of the few standardized tests that does not expire. However, some UK institutions may regard scores as invalid after two years. The grading system used by Cambridge Assessment English has a minimum cut-off of A, B, or C, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). To obtain Tier 4 visas, the relevant levels are B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), and C2 Proficiency (CPE).

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/The Economics Times

Generative Ai is transforming India's workforce by enhancing productivity and automating routine tasks. This technology empowers employees to focus on high-value work, driving innovation and business growth.

The arrival of Generative AI has seen all companies exploring how they can make the best use of this technology - from boosting workplace productivity, to supporting workers with routine and repetitive tasks that often fill their day. There is a real opportunity to harness technology to free up time for employees and empower them to focus on more productive tasks.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/India Today

Canada’s New PGWP Rules: Stricter Language Requirements and Labour Shortage Fields

Canada’s updated Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, effective from 1st November 2024, introduce stricter language proficiency requirements and mandate graduates from certain fields of study to qualify for work permits. Applicants must now meet specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, depending on their field of study. Additionally, graduates from key sectors like healthcare, STEM, and agriculture will have a clearer path to securing a PGWP. These changes aim to address Canada’s labour shortages while creating new opportunities for skilled international workers.

In a significant development for international students, Canada’s updated Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, effective from 1st November 2024, introduce new eligibility criteria. These changes are aimed at addressing labour shortages in key industries while ensuring students meet certain language proficiency requirements. International students planning to stay and work in Canada post-graduation must now carefully navigate these updated guidelines to secure a PGWP, as the changes come with stricter criteria.

Field of Study Requirements

Canada’s new PGWP rules are also targeted towards graduates in certain fields linked to long-term labour shortages. The updated regulations mandate that graduates from specific programmes must align their studies with key areas where Canada needs skilled workers. These include sectors such as

• Agriculture and agri-food
• Healthcare
• Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
• Trade
• Transport

Students graduating from fields that fall within these categories will have a clearer path to obtaining a PGWP. However, for those from other fields, especially non-university programmes, meeting the new field-of-study requirement is essential for work permit eligibility. Importantly, university graduates with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees will not be subjected to additional field-of-study restrictions.

How to Apply for a PGWP under the New Rules

Graduates have up to 180 days after completing their studies to apply for a PGWP. However, to be eligible to work while waiting for a decision on their application, students must apply with a valid study permit. Applicants are required to provide documents such as their degree or diploma, official transcripts, or a letter of completion from their institution to confirm their educational qualifications.

The updated rules also state that graduates can no longer apply for a PGWP at a port of entry. Applications must now be submitted online, either from within Canada or from abroad. Additionally, those seeking to work in fields requiring medical exams can opt for an upfront medical exam, no more than 90 days before applying for their PGWP.

Restoring Your Status as a Student

If a student’s study permit expires before applying for the PGWP, they have up to 90 days to restore their status. This requires submitting both the PGWP application and a fee to restore their student status. During this period, however, they are not permitted to work until both their study and work permits have been approved.

The New Landscape for International Graduates

Canada’s updated PGWP rules reflect the country’s changing economic landscape and its ongoing efforts to match skilled workers with labour shortages in key sectors. While the stricter language and field-of-study requirements may pose challenges for some students, they also present new opportunities for graduates in high-demand industries. For those planning to study in Canada, understanding and meeting these new requirements will be crucial for post-graduation work opportunities.

Key PGWP Changes Effective from 1st November 2024