Learning-Oriented Assessment (LOA) Implementation in EFL Tertiary Contexts: Towards a More Task-based Learning (TBL) Environment

Abstract

Over the past decade, learning-oriented assessment (LOA) has gained increasing attention as an emerging approach to classroom-based assessment. LOA prioritises learning and focuses on engaging learners actively in assessment and feedback activities. To enhance the learning environment in higher education, it is crucial for teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) to be aware of and implement innovative assessment methods that support student learning, such as LOA. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to investigate the knowledge, use, and challenges of LOA in tertiary contexts. A total of (93) male and female EFL teachers teaching in tertiary education participated in the study. An adaptation of The Teachers' Learning-Oriented Assessment Questionnaire survey (Alsowat, 2022) and items from semi-structured interviews (Fazel & Ali, 2022) were used to collect the data for this study. The findings of this study show that EFL teachers had good knowledge of LOA concepts but suggest that they need further focused training on the implementation of LOA. The study also shows that the teachers faced pedagogical, practical, attitudinal, and institutional challenges that prevented the better implementation of LOA practices.