Test-Takers’ Feedback on Washback Impact of the Annual Examination of M.A. in English Literature From College Side

Abstract

This paper examines the importance of feedback on Washback Impact of the annual examination of M.A in English Literature from test-takers to improve the quality and validity of the exam. M.A in English Literature is recognized as most prestigious degree as compared to other master degree programs from college side. It opens the doors of opportunities of jobs for candidates. The University of Sindh started Master Degree Program in English Literature at Government Girls College, Hyderabad and Government College, Kali Mori. The examination was conducted in 2015 by University of Sindh. The 400 test-takers appeared in the annual exam. To investigate the feedback from the test-takers the qualitative approach was used in this study. The research instrument for data collection used was semi-structured interviews. The participants of the study were 20 male and female candidates of the two local colleges of district Hyderabad. The participants were of the same age group from 23 to 24 years. The results and findings showed that test-takers have strong positive and negative consequences of the examination. Their utmost desire was to share their views about the exam to the university authority. The significance of the study is feedbacks from test-takers are important to enhance the quality and validity of the exam and it helps test developers to maintain quality and validity of the exam.