Investigating the Impact of the Engineering College Admission Test on Test-Takers

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the washback effects of ECAT on test takers. ECAT (Engineering College Admission) test is a high stakes exam. In Pakistan every year number of candidates with the hope of getting admission appeared in the test. The current study aims to explore the washback effects of ECAT on its test takers (both successful and unsuccessful). To investigate the washback effects of ECAT, the researcher adopted qualitative approach. The data collection tool used for the current study is a semi structured interviews. The total  number of the participants (n=30). The participants of the study are divided into two groups: Group A successful candidates, Group B unsuccessful  candidates. The current study used  the convenient sampling. From the data analysis, the constant comparative Method (CCM) Maykutt and More (1994) guideline are used. The findings of the study revealed that ECAT has strong positive and negative consequences on test takers. The successful test takers were seemed more focused, disciplined and hardworking worried about to get success in the test. The washback effect on the unsuccessful test takers revealed the fact that few participants were never interested in the ECAT. Beside this there were other factors that contribute to their failure. The perceptions of the both groups about ECAT showed, it is a transparent test and the format and content and their system of conducting  the entrance exam is good. The implications of this study are for the   future test takers and the test developers to ensure the validity, reliability and quality of the test. Secondly, to build a trust relationship between test takers and test developers. Thirdly, in the washback research, it will be a good addition to the washback effect of test on test takers, as they  are most neglected stakeholders in washback research at a national and international level. It will be a good addition in literature available for washback research.