Washback Activity: At the Micro Level

Abstract

This chapter presents a detailed discussion of the results of Chaps. 6, 7 and 8 with particular focus on washback to the learner with respect to: content, strategy use, rate and sequence of learning, attitudes, and degree and depth of learning. As discussed in this chapter, a myriad of factors may interplay with a test taker and a test at different stages of student test activity to influence learning outcomes. Individual test stakes, motives and goals are early factors likely to influence learner action and agency. The type of learning communities and contexts that students participate in as a result of these motives are another key factor. In all, this chapter highlights how the choices learners make within different contexts, at key stages of the washback process, may contribute to how a test may influence learning; and that a more comprehensive understanding of washback is one that considers influencing factors outside of the test itself at pivotal points in the testing/learning process.