Discover your unique ESL learning style with the ESL Values Test. Get personalized recommendations based on your values and goals.
Learning a new language is deeply connected to your personal values, motivations and goals.
Schwarz’s Theory of Basic Human Values provides a framework for understanding what values we have as individuals. According to Schwarz, there are ten universal values that guide human behavior.
Schwartz’s Ten Basic Human Values Explained
| BASIC VALUE | MEANING | PERSONALITY ADJECTIVES |
| 1. Self-Direction | Independence, creativity, and freedom to explore | Independent, creative, curious, free-thinking, innovative, autonomous |
| 2. Stimulation | Excitement, novelty, and challenge in life | Adventurous, dynamic, exciting, energetic, bold, thrill-seeking |
| 3. Hedonism | Pleasure and enjoyment | Fun-loving, joyful, sensual, indulgent, playful, light-hearted |
| 4. Achievement | Success, competence, and ambition | Ambitious, successful, goal-oriented, competent, determined |
| 5. Power | Influence, control, and social status | Dominant, influential, authoritative, commanding, ambitious, prestigious |
| 6. Security | Safety, stability, and harmony | Safe, stable, reliable, protective, cautious, grounded |
| 7. Conformity | Respect for rules, traditions, and social norms | Obedient, disciplined, respectful, conventional, traditional, orderly |
| 8. Tradition | Preservation of cultural and family customs | Respectful, conservative, ritualistic, heritage-focused, devoted |
| 9. Benevolence | Caring for others and maintaining close relationships | Kind, compassionate, generous, altruistic, supportive, empathetic |
| 10. Universalism | Tolerance, equality, and concern for the welfare of all people and nature | Tolerant, fair, humanitarian, ecological, open-minded |
Introduction To The Test
The test is designed to help you uncover your basic human values (based on Schwartz’s theory) and how they relate to your ESL goals. It will also offer personalized recommendations to make your learning experience more effective and enjoyable.
How the Test Works
- Read each scenario and choose one option that feels most natural or appealing to you.
- After completing all five scenarios, add up your answers (A,B,C, or D).
- Use your scoring guide to interprete your results.
- Receive personalized recommendations based on your values.
The Test
1. Scenario: Choosing a Learning Environment
- A: A structured classroom with clear rules and a set schedule.
- B: A flexible online course where you can learn at your own pace.
- C: A private tutor who tailors lessons to your specific interests.
- D: A prestigious language school with a global reputation.
2. Scenario: Choosing a Learning Goal
- A: To communicate better at work and handle daily tasks.
- B: To advance your career and get a promotion.
- C: To connect with people from different cultures.
- D: To read classic English literature or discuss global issues.
3. Scenario: Choosing a Learning Activity
- A: Practicing job-specific vocabulary and phrases.
- B: Preparing for a professional certification or exam.
- C: Attending a cultural exchange event or international conference.
- D: Writing essays or giving presentations on global topics.
4. Scenario: Choosing a Learning Partner
- A: A study group where everyone follows the same plan and supports each other.
- B: A mentor who helps you achieve specific career or educational goals.
- C: A language exchange partner from a different culture.
- D: A high-profile coach or expert in your field of interest.
5. Scenario: Choosing a Learning Outcome
- A: To feel confident and secure in your daily interactions in English.
- B: To gain recognition and respect in your professional field.
- C: To build meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.
- D: To explore your creativity and intellectual interest through English.
Scoring and Interpretation
Tally your answers (A, B, C, or D) and use the guide below to interprete the results.
Mostly A: Security, Conformity, Tradition
Values: You value stability, safety, and respect for rules and traditions.
- ESL Recommendations:
- Focus on practical, everyday English for work and daily life.
- Join community classes, online platforms, or social media resources, or choose a tutor with a structured approach. Set clear expectations.
- Practice job-specific vocabulary to build confidence in your workplace.
- Use structured learning materials (e.g. self-study books, references) to feel secure and supported.
- Track progress by using workbooks with answer keys or online quizzes to monitor your improvement.
Mostly B: Achievement, Security, Benevolence
Values: You value success, ambition, and helping others.
- ESL Recommendations:
- Invest in reputable ESL courses or certifications to advance your career, or choose a tutor with expertise in Professional English or ESL exam preparation.
- Set clear goals, such as passing a language exam or earning a promotion.
- Practice English in professional settings, such as meetings or presentations, or by writing reports.
- Consider mentoring others to combine learning and helping.
Mostly C: Universalism, Stimulation, Benevolence
Values: You value cultural exchange, excitement, and making a positive impact.
- ESL Recommendations:
- Attend cultural exchange events or international conferences to practice English.
- Choose a tutor who has experience living or working in different countries or who specializes in cultural exchange or global issues. Teachers who are passionate about teaching through creative and engaging methods (e.g. storytelling, debates, games, or role-playing) are ideal.
- Explore creative and stimulating activities, such as writing or public speaking.
- Connect with people from different countries through language exchange programs or volunteer opportunities.
- Consider learning English through travel or immersive experiences.
Mostly D: Power, Universalism, Self-Direction
Values: You value influence, independence, and making a global impact.
- ESL Recommendations:
- Enroll in customized ESL programs tailored to your interests.
- Choose a a highly-qualified tutor with advanced qualifications or experience in teaching high-level professionals. Tutors with expertise in your area of interest (e.g. global affairs, business, philosophy, literature, etc.) are ideal.
- Incorporate intellectual and creative content. Ensure that learning experience is challenging and impactful.
- Focus on global topics, such as politics, business, or philanthropy.
- Use your English skills to engage in global initiatives or international leadership roles. Write articles, essays or books in English. Participate in high-stake negotiations, debates or think tanks.
Disclaimer: The test is designed to help you explore your values and how they might influence your goals for learning English as a Second Language (ESL). It is not a definitive assessment of your values, circumstances or abilities. The results are generalized and should be taken as suggestions rather than absolute truths. Your unique experiences and aspirations may not fully align with the outcomes.
