The OET speaking sub-test is designed to simulate real-life communication scenarios healthcare professionals experience in the workplace. This is a key difference between OET and other English proficiency tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Reflecting real-life interactions
In general or academic English tests, the examiner typically controls the flow of the conversation by asking questions for the candidate to answer. However, the OET Speaking sub-test is fundamentally different. It mirrors the interactions healthcare professionals have with their patients, where the professional often guides the conversation.
As a healthcare professional, you control the conversations you have with your patients. This control is crucial because you know which information needs to be provided or is likely to be requested from your patient. It also helps you ensure the consultation time is managed efficiently.
The structure of the OET speaking sub-test
The OET speaking sub-test consists of two role-plays based on typical workplace situations. During these role-plays, you are expected to take the lead, just as you would in a real-life healthcare scenario. This involves initiating the conversation, gathering and providing information, and addressing the patient's concerns.
The role-play scenarios cover various everyday workplace contexts, such as reassuring a patient about their health, conducting follow-up consultations, or explaining treatment plans. Each scenario tests your ability to communicate effectively, demonstrating your proficiency in handling real-world healthcare interactions.
Starting the role-play
At the beginning of each role-play, it is your responsibility to get things going. This means you need to start the conversation, establish the context, and clarify the purpose of the interaction. For example, if you are conducting a follow-up consultation, you might begin by asking the patient about their progress since their last visit.
Taking control from the outset helps create a structured and coherent interaction, allowing you to manage the conversation effectively within the limited time available. Remember, you do not have to cover all the tasks outlined in the role-play card in the five minutes available, but you should demonstrate efficient time management to move through as many of them as possible.
Moving the conversation forward
Once the conversation has started, it is essential to keep it moving forward. This involves transitioning smoothly between different topics, asking relevant questions, and providing necessary information to respond to the patients' concerns. You should aim to spend an appropriate amount of time on each task determined by its familiarity to the patient, ensuring that the conversation flows naturally and logically.
For instance, if you are explaining a new treatment plan to a patient, you might need to take time to discuss the steps involved, potential side effects, and follow-up procedures. Eliciting from a patient if they’ve tried any first-aid remedies for their symptoms on the other hand can be completed quickly by a simple open question. By guiding the conversation and addressing each point clearly, you demonstrate your ability to communicate complex healthcare information effectively.
Balancing listening and speaking
While it is important to take control of the conversation, you must also listen and respond appropriately to the patient. Effective communication is a two-way process, and your ability to understand and address the patient's concerns is a critical aspect of the OET speaking sub-test.
Balancing the amount of time, you talk with the amount of time you listen ensures that the patient feels heard and understood. This not only reflects real-life medical interactions but also demonstrates your ability to provide patient-centred care.
For example, if a patient voices concerns about a particular treatment, take the time to listen to their worries and provide reassuring, responses using the prompts provided on your role card. This shows that you can handle patient concerns empathetically and professionally.
Why control is crucial
Knowing that the OET speaking sub-test mirrors real-life patient-professional communication is one of the reasons many candidates choose the OET. It tests you in ways that are familiar and relevant to your profession and, in preparing for your Speaking test, you are also preparing for the real-world interactions you will experience in an English-speaking healthcare setting.
Taking control of the conversation during the OET speaking sub-test is not just about passing the test; it is about demonstrating your readiness to engage with patients effectively in your professional life. It shows that you can lead consultations, manage time efficiently, and ensure that all necessary information is communicated clearly and accurately.
Practical tips for taking control
Familiarise yourself with the format: Understand the structure of the OET speaking sub-test and the types of role-play scenarios you may encounter. This will help you feel more confident and prepared.
Practice role-plays: Engage in practice role-plays with a study partner or mentor. Focus on starting the conversation, moving it forward, and balancing speaking and listening.
Plan your responses: Before the role-play begins, take a few moments to plan how you will approach each task. Think about the key points you need to cover, the time this will take and how you will transition between topics.
Use clear, simple language: Avoid jargon or overly complex language. Your goal is to communicate clearly and effectively, ensuring that the patient understands the information you provide.
Stay calm and focused: Maintain a calm and professional demeanour throughout the role-play. If you encounter unexpected questions or concerns, respond thoughtfully and confidently.
Taking control of the conversation in the OET speaking sub-test is essential for demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively as a healthcare professional. By starting the role-play, moving the conversation forward, and balancing speaking and listening, you can showcase your readiness to engage with patients in real-world medical scenarios.
For more detailed information and resources on studying for the OET Test, visit our study tips and inspiration page.