DNVN89

Review of ALTA Language Services, Inc.

I have my degree in two Romance languages. I've al...

I have my degree in two Romance languages. I've also lived abroad in countries that speak the languages, and I have even taught for 3 years. Needless to say, I've taken dozens of proficiency exams for several academically accredited institutions, and passed them (I had to to or else I wouldn't have been permitted to attend university if France, Spain, or Mexico). However, the exams proctored by this company are absolutely ridiculous, to say the least. The questions are completely random and have nothing to do with reality, one's life, or one's profession. I work in the travel industry, yet they asked me questions like: Why does the yellow bird sing? Why do people use spoons? Describe your kitchen stove in detail. These are ACTUAL "questions" they asked me! And if your answer isn't at least two full paragraphs, they ask you to elaborate further! HOW MUCH CAN I REALLY TALK ABOUT A SPOON? I still don't understand why my company uses ALTA. I know so many NATIVE speakers who cannot pass these exams. How is it possible to FAIL an exam that tests one's ability to speak the language they have spoken and been educated in for their ENTIRE LIFE??? There is something very wrong with this language company's methods. I would NEVER recommend them! They are a disgrace to the language education community.