A sequential explanatory mixed methods approach was chosen for this study as the intention was to use the qualitative results to ‘assist in explaining and interpreting the findings of a primarily quantitative study’ (Cresswell, 2003, p 215). Scores from a current IELTS Test (Test 2) and an earlier one (Test 1) provided quantitative data for analysis. Interviews were conducted after Test 2 with almost all of the participants. A combination of both quantitative and qualitative approaches such as t