Authenticity in the Eye of Beholders: EFL Learners’ Perceptions of Authentic Language Assessment

Authenticity, as one of the most important components in language testing, received considerable attention. This study was an attempt to examine EFL learners’ perceptions of authenticity in language tests. In so doing, ۶۰ aviation university students were selected to participate in the study using the convenience sampling method. Within a period of three weeks, the participating ESP learners studying Aviation at Sama Paran University were given two language tests; the Reading Section of a TOEFL practice test, and an ESP test designed for Aviation students. Shortly after each test, they were asked to complete a questionnaire to evaluate the students’ perception of authenticity of these two tests and possible advantages as well as disadvantages. The study concluded that the participants were able to put a premium on the ESP test because of its perceived practicality; however, there was no significant difference in their perceptions regarding their perceptions of the authenticity of these two test.

Keywords:

Authenticity , Authentic tests , Language testing , Learners’ perceptions