29/04/2013
A new illustrated history of Cambridge English exams and the people behind them has been published by experts in Cambridge.
Cambridge English Exams – the first hundred years, by Roger Hawkey and Michael Milanovic, charts the incredible growth in demand for Cambridge English exams, from three candidates in 1913 to almost four million in 2013. The Cambridge English exams are developed by Cambridge Assessment English – part of the University of Cambridge. Readers are taken on a journey which goes right back to the formation of Cambridge University in 1209 and ends with a look at the future of English language learning. The focus of Milanovic and Hawkey’s account is on the history of the Cambridge English exams throughout their first hundred years, setting them in the context of wider educational and academic developments.
The book officially launched in April at the 2013 IATEFL conference in Liverpool. Dr Mike Milanovic, one of the book’s authors and Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment English, said:
"The Cambridge English exams continue to deliver educational and social benefits to millions of students around the world. This illustrated history tells the story of how the exams have grown from humble beginnings to being taken by over 4 million candidates last year. Our story shows how we have constantly applied independent research to our decision-making . This has helped to ensure Cambridge English exams continue to meet the changing needs of millions of test takers around the world."
The launch of Cambridge English Exams – the first hundred years coincides with the 100th anniversary of Cambridge Assessment English and is published as Volume 38 in the Studies in Language Testing series (published by Cambridge University Press). The authors pay particular attention to the contribution of the dedicated individuals who have played a part in the success of the exams and their positive educational impact. Dr Milanovic comments:
“This book charts and celebrates our long history and acknowledges the contribution of the people who have helped shape the Cambridge English approach.”
Today, the Cambridge English exams are recognised by over 13,500 organisations around the world including universities, companies and immigration bodies. Cambridge English Exams – the first hundred years tells this interesting story through anecdotes, first hand accounts, archive materials and hundreds of photos and illustrations.