Flow Speech Fluency Test

A New Approach to Measuring Fluency

Traditional methods of assessing speech fluency often fall short. They typically rely on question-and-answer formats, which can inadvertently slow down speech as learners grapple with the cognitive load of formulating elaborate responses. This doesn't truly capture a speaker's natural fluency.

That's where Flow Speech Fluency Testing (FSFT) comes in. FSFT is an innovative method designed to measure fluency without relying on cognitive abilities. Instead, it focuses on assessing natural speech patterns, allowing users to speak freely and spontaneously. Here's how it works:
 

Users begin speaking about any event from their experience, ignited by a word randomly selected from a dictionary of the 3,000 most frequently spoken words. Learners record 2-4 sentences inspired by that word. The system monitors the time from when the learner starts recording until they stop. If a learner doesn't know a word, they click a "Do Not Know" button, and the word is noted as unknown.

What Makes FSFT Unique?

FSFT stands apart from existing fluency testing systems due to several key features:

1. Quantitative Fluency Measurement: FSFT is designed not only to develop fluency but also to measure it quantitatively in terms of words per minute, alongside other aspects of your English skills.

2. Free and Accessible: Unlike costly and time-consuming standardized English tests, FSFT provides a free alternative. It gives users valuable feedback, helping them determine when they're likely to succeed on those official exams.

3. Integrated Training: FSFT is seamlessly integrated as a drill within each lesson of the AnyLingo™ Web application. This provides subconscious training for any alphabet-based language. Regular use of this drill helps learners develop automaticity in speaking and receive implicit feedback on their progress in fluency.

Redefining Fluency

Fluency is arguably the most critical language skill, directly impacting intelligibility and the ability to pursue education or work in a foreign language. However, the standard definition often proves impractical: "Speaking fluency in a foreign language generally refers to the ability to communicate smoothly, efficiently, and naturally, with a good flow of speech."

I propose a more practical definition: "Learners acquire fluency when they can express their thoughts and ideas automatically, without having to cross-translate in their minds or constantly search for the right words. They can think in the target language while speaking. Typically, fluency is achieved when the learner can produce two or more words per second on any topic while speaking."