This study reports on the effects English proficiency test (EPT) (based on the Six-level Foreign language proficiency framework for Vietnam) for graduates on classroom teaching and learning activities. The study, known as the only research investigating washback in language education through classroom observation so far, explores the washback, the influence of testing on 9 teachers and 679 non-English major students. The study, conducted at the National University of Arts Education, combines classroom observation with data from interview, questionaire responses and document analysis to determine whether washback exists, to what degree it operates, and whether it is a positive or negative force in this educational context. The insights from the findings indicate that washback of English Proficiency Test for graduates occurred in both positive and negative forms in teaching and learing content, methods and styles. Evidence of washback, both positive and negative, was also found while the test being designed. This is important for Vietnamese educators in preparing favourable conditions for enhancing the positive washback of EPT. The findings contribute a better understanding of the nature and different levels of washback.
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This study reports on the effects English proficiency test (EPT) (based on the Six-level Foreign language proficiency framework for Vietnam) for graduates on classroom teaching and learning activities. The study, known as the only research investigating washback in language education through classroom observation so far, explores the washback, the influence of testing on 9 teachers and 679 non-English major students. The study, conducted at the National University of Arts Education, combines classroom observation with data from interview, questionaire responses and document analysis to determine whether washback exists, to what degree it operates, and whether it is a positive or negative force in this educational context. The insights from the findings indicate that washback of English Proficiency Test for graduates occurred in both positive and negative forms in teaching and learing content, methods and styles. Evidence of washback, both positive and negative, was also found while the test being designed. This is important for Vietnamese educators in preparing favourable conditions for enhancing the positive washback of EPT. The findings contribute a better understanding of the nature and different levels of washback.
