The TOEFL programme released a press announcement introducing the use of biometric voice identification to maintain fair and reliable TOEFL testing. Similar to the highly advanced speaker identification platforms used by government and law enforcement agencies, the software uses statistical pattern matching techniques, advanced voice classification methods, and inputs from multiple systems to compare speech samples from TOEFL test takers. The speaker identification system offers the ability to create voice prints for detailed analysis to validate the identity of TOEFL test takers. The new technology will be used as part of test security investigations in 2012 and, beginning in 2013, will gradually be used on a larger scale.

TOEFL scholarships were awarded to 95 students at ceremonies in China, India, Japan, Korea and Taiwan in July. Established in 2009, the ETS scholarship programme recognises academic excellence of TOEFL test takers. Scholarships were awarded to high-performing students studying in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Korea, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States during the scholarship ceremonies in July. These students were rated based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, essay response and TOEFL scores. Two of these students chose to study in Australia.

The TOEFL programme will be hosting free development workshops in Australia. Topics include helping students increase their understanding of textual cohesion, and writing items for the TOEFL iBT speaking section. Check out the descriptions and contact information below.

The TOEFL programme is hosting events at several conferences in Australia in the upcoming months, including the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET) conference, the Training and Further Education (TAFE) conference, the English Australia Conference (EA) and the Council of International Students Australia (CISA) conference. Stop by the presentations or our booth to learn more about the TOEFL test and how it can help your institution.

In an effort to improve English-language learning opportunities for all students, Ecuador's Ministry of Education announced that the TOEFL test will measure the abilities of public teachers of English as a Foreign Language.

"Providing all students with the opportunity to learn English is a priority for the Ministry of Education," commented Gloria Vidal, Ecuador's Minister of Education. "The TOEFL test offers a reliable measure to diagnose the current knowledge of English of Ecuador's EFL public teachers. The test will provide valuable information that will allow us to design professional development opportunities for teachers to attain the necessary level of proficiency to educate our children. We look forward to working collaboratively with all teachers to help them reach the Ministry's English-language standards."

Millions of people around the world are studying English to help them achieve their academic and career goals. The TOEFL TV channel on YouTube is for them, and for you. It's a place to learn, share and grow.

Institutions from all over the world are sharing their tips to help improve English skills. Currently, over 25 institutions in Australia and New Zealand have shared their videos. In fact, the TOEFL TV channel has reached over 1 million views!

The new TOEFL iBT Online Prep Course creates a personalised learning path with up to 80 hours of content to help your students do their best on the TOEFL test. Included as part of the prep course are diagnostic tests, robust exercises, interactive vocabulary, test-taking strategies, self-assessments and a grade book. There are also management tools that allow institutions to create and manage instructor-led classes.

The TOEFL programme will be attending conferences all over the world. Be sure to stop by our booths, speak to a representative and get information on the latest TOEFL developments.