The Washback Effect of Cet4 Reading Comprehension Test on EFL College Students' Language Learning Attitude

Abstract

Washback in language testing studies how important exams affect teaching and learning. The College English Test Band 4 (CET-4) is a major foreign language test in China, and this study focuses on how it impacts students' attitudes toward reading comprehension. While previous research has looked at CET-4's impact on teaching and materials, there's a gap in understanding how students feel about the reading comprehension part. This study used a survey to investigate non-English major college students from two departments in one college in China about their experiences in CET-4 Reading Comprehension. The results show both positive and negative effects of CET-4 on students' attitudes. The study suggests ways to enhance the positive impact and reduce the negative, which can influence how students approach learning and feel about CET-4.