People who want to know how good their Putonghua is can soon be tested by a computer instead of examiners.
The Centre for Research and Development of Putonghua Education, launched yesterday at the Chinese University, will introduce Putonghua proficiency tests via computer software from November.
The tests have been endorsed by the State Language Commission and candidates who pass the tests will be qualified to teach Putonghua.
Centre director Professor Ho Wai-kit said the new technology could encourage more people to learn Putonghua and take the language tests.
'Normally, one candidate will face three examiners in a Putonghua oral test. But now . . . a candidate can walk into the centre and sit down in front of a multi-media computer to take the test on his own.
'This will save lots of time and resources. More people should be encouraged to learn Putonghua,' he said. Each candidate would be charged about $600.
