In Search for Implementing Learning-Oriented Assessment in an EFL Setting

Abstract

Learning-oriented assessment (LOA) is a kind of assessment which is used to promote and stimulate learning, and improve instruction and teaching. Learning-oriented assessment is viewed as crucial to language assessment. Therefore, this paper is an attempt to explore whether teachers support the notion of using LOA in an ELF setting or not ,why do teacher support the use of it, how can LOA be implemented, and what are the possible challenges that might be encountered in implementing LOA. 25 teachers were surveyed to answer the six open-ended questions raised by the study. The findings showed that all teachers are in favour of LOA and they support its use and implementation because they believed that it could help learners to learn better and promote active learning. They believed that the best way for implementing LOA is through training both of teachers and students in using self-evaluation, peer-assessment and portfolio assessment techniques and principles. Moreover, assessment tasks should be made as learning tasks and should be well-aligned with the curriculum objectives and goals, and timely feedback should be given to students to scaffold their learning.