Washback: The Effect of Testing on Teaching and Learning

The term ‘washback’ which is now widely used in applied linguistics and language testing community, has also become important in the literature of language teaching and education. ‘Washback’ refers to the influence or impact of tests, exams, or any other kinds of assessment on teaching and learning process. A test will not only influence the degree and depth of teaching and learning, but also have effect on attitudes to the content, method, etc. of teaching and learning. ‘Washback’ can be positive or negative, to the extent that it either promotes or inhibits the instructional goals held by learners or teachers. Thus, the mismatch between the instructional goals and the focus of assessment may lead to derailing to achieve curriculum objectives effectively. In other words, it may be referred to as beneficial ( positive) versus harmful (negative) washback. Some researchers have also made a distinction between the ‘micro-washback’ which shows the effect of assessment on learners and teachers inside the classrooms or schools, and the ‘macro-washback’ which indicates the impact on society and educational system. Consequently, washback has the capacity to create a positive or negative effect on teachers and learners ( participants), the process of teaching and learning, and also educational product.

Keywords:

micro-washback , macro-washback , positive washback , negative washback , test , assessment