The Role of Big Data in Shaping Global Economic Policies - TOEFL iBT® Writing Academic Discussion Practice Test

The TOEFL Academic Discussion task tests your ability to synthesize information from both reading and listening sources. In this practice task, you’ll engage with the topic 'The Role of Big Data in Shaping Global Economic Policies', analyzing different viewpoints on how data analytics influences economic decisions worldwide.

This exercise will help you refine your ability to combine ideas from multiple sources, a key skill for achieving success in the TOEFL Writing section.

Writing Instructions:

• You will read a discussion related to an academic topic in class where your classmates have written their opinions on the said topic.
• You have 10 minutes to prepare and write your personal opinion on the academic topic. 
• Try to answer the question based on the discussion. You can also take ideas from the opinions posted by your classmates.
• There is no maximum word limit. However, an effective response should be a minimum of 100 words.
• Your response will be judged on the quality and clarity of your writing with well-supported reasons.

Instruction: Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professors question. In your response, you should

1. express and support your personal opinion

2. make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You have ten minutes to write.

Professor: In our next class, we will explore how big data is affecting global economic policies. Big data can provide valuable understandings that help shape economic plans, but it also raises concerns about privacy and data security. What do you think is the most important impact of big data on global economic policies?

Emily: I believe the most important impact of big data on global economic policies is its ability to provide real-time understandings of economic trends. Governments and policymakers can use this data to make better decisions. They can adjust interest rates or put fiscal policies into action. For example, during economic declines, real-time data can help identify which sectors are most affected. This allows for targeted actions. This level of precision was not possible before the arrival of big data.

Oliver: While I agree that real-time understandings are valuable, I think the most important impact of big data is its potential to make inequality worse. Big data analytics are often controlled by large corporations and wealthy nations. This can lead to policies that favor these groups at the expense of smaller businesses and new countries. For example, data-driven policies might focus on industries that are already well-established, leaving new sectors and economies behind. This could widen the gap between the rich and the poor, both within and between countries.

Score 3 Response 

I believe that the most important impact of big data on global economic policies is its ability to provide real-time insights into economic trends. Governments and policymakers can use this data to make better decisions and adjust economic policies accordingly. For example, during economic downturns, real-time data can help identify which sectors are most affected, allowing for targeted interventions.However, it is important to acknowledge that big data also raises concerns about privacy and data security. The collection and analysis of large amounts of data can create risks for individuals and businesses. It is crucial to implement strong data protection measures to ensure that privacy is safeguarded and that data is used responsibly.In conclusion, while big data offers significant benefits for shaping global economic policies, it is essential to address the concerns related to privacy and data security. By striking a balance between the use of big data and the protection of individual rights, we can harness the potential of big data to improve economic outcomes while minimizing risks.

Rater's Comment:

This response provides a clear opinion and offers some supporting evidence, but it lacks depth and analysis. The writer focuses primarily on the positive impacts of big data, ignoring the potential negative consequences. The response could be improved by providing more specific examples and evidence to support the claims. Additionally, the writer fails to address the counterargument presented by Oliver, which could strengthen the overall argument.

Score 5 Response 

The impact of big data on global economic policies is a complex issue with both positive and negative consequences. While big data offers the potential to provide valuable insights into economic trends and inform policy decisions, it also raises concerns about privacy, data security, and the potential for exacerbating inequality.One of the most significant benefits of big data is its ability to provide real-time insights into economic indicators. Governments and policymakers can use this data to make more informed decisions and respond effectively to economic challenges. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, real-time data on economic activity helped governments to assess the impact of lockdown measures and implement targeted support programs.However, the use of big data also raises concerns about privacy and data security. The collection and analysis of large amounts of personal data can create risks for individuals, as their information may be misused or exploited. It is essential to implement strong data protection measures and ensure that data is used responsibly.Moreover, the potential for big data to exacerbate inequality is a significant concern. Big data analytics are often controlled by large corporations and wealthy nations, which can lead to policies that favor these groups at the expense of smaller businesses and developing economies. For example, data-driven policies may focus on industries that are already well-established, leaving new sectors and economies behind.In conclusion, while big data offers significant opportunities for improving global economic policies, it is essential to address the concerns related to privacy, data security, and inequality. By striking a balance between the use of big data and the protection of individual rights, we can harness the potential of big data to improve economic outcomes while minimizing risks.

Rater's Comment:

This response demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic and provides a well-balanced argument. The writer effectively addresses both the positive and negative impacts of big data, supporting their claims with specific examples and evidence. The response also acknowledges the potential challenges associated with the use of big data and offers solutions for mitigating them. This is a strong example of a high-scoring response.

Strategies for Taking the Academic Discussion Writing Task

Here are strategies to approach 'The Role of Big Data in Shaping Global Economic Policies' in the TOEFL Academic Discussion task:

1. Understand the Main Arguments: Concentrate on the essential points presented in both the reading and the lecture regarding the influence of big data on global economic policy-making.

2. Compare the Sources: Pay attention to any discrepancies or agreements between the reading and the lecture concerning the effectiveness of utilizing big data in economic decision-making.

3. Organize Clearly: Structure your response in a logical manner, providing a balanced discussion of both the benefits and challenges associated with using big data in policy development.

4. Be Concise and Precise: Make sure your writing is clear and focused, employing specific vocabulary to effectively convey your points.

5. Time Your Writing: Practice responding within time limits to develop the skill of crafting a comprehensive answer that fits within the constraints of the TOEFL Writing task.

Engaging with the TOEFL Academic Discussion task on 'The Role of Big Data in Shaping Global Economic Policies' will enhance your ability to analyze complex subjects and present coherent arguments. Mastering these skills will elevate your performance in the TOEFL Writing section.

Also Read:

• University Spending - TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Practice Test with Sample Answers
• Classroom Learning vs. Online Education - TOEFL iBT® Academic Discussion Writing Practice Test with Sample Answers
• Important Discoveries and Inventions - TOEFL iBT® Academic Discussion Writing Practice Test with Sample Answers
• Scientific Research - TOEFL iBT® Academic Discussion Writing Practice Test with Sample Answers