Standardized Test Results: An Opportunity for English Program Improvement

Abstract

This case study explores the relationship between the results obtained by a group of Industrial Engineering students on a national standardized English test and the impact these results had on language program improvement. The instruments used were interviews, document analysis, observations, surveys, and test results analysis. Findings indicate that the program has some weaknesses in terms of number of hours of instruction, methodology, and assessment practices that affect the program content and the students’ expected performance. Recommendations relate to setting up a plan of action to make the program enhance student’s performance in English, bearing in mind that the goal is not the students’ preparation for the test but the development of language skills.

Keywords

• Common European Framework of Reference
• curriculum
• standardized tests
• SABER PRO test
• washback effect