Impact of test preparation and General English instruction on reading performance: A study on learning outcomes and perceptions of International English Language Testing system (IELTS) students in Sri Lanka

The purpose of this mixed method study was to evaluate the effectiveness of IELTS preparation courses and determine the best type of preparation associated with reading score gain. The investigation was centered on Sri Lankan students in training for both the Academic and General IELTS modules. The instruction focused on exclusive test-orientated preparation of varying duration, General English (GE) and a combination of the two. The outcomes were statistically measured via pre- and posttest scores. Factors that contributed to score gain were also investigated using pretest survey data. A deeper understanding into the impact of combining IELTS preparation with GE instruction was investigated with learner perceptions via questionnaires and focus group interviews. The findings revealed that score gain was determined more by pre-preparation proficiency than course type. These findings, however, imply the value of incorporating test preparation within a larger GE context to satisfy the overall expectations of IELTS preparation students.