e-ISSN: 2618-6586 Open Access · Peer-Reviewed JETOL on DergiPark
JETOL — Journal of Educational Technology & Online Learning
Publisher
Gürhan Durak
Publication Model
Periodical (January – May – September)
Status
Open for Submissions

Examination of a computer-delivered English proficiency test for flight attendants: Test-takers’ experiences

Research Article

Download PDF DOI: 10.31681/jetol.1003051
Pages
673–687
Publication Date
December 31, 2021
Submission Date
September 30, 2021
Acceptance Date
December 27, 2021
Subjects
Studies on Education

Abstract

International Civil Aviation Organization recognizes English proficiency tests for the aviation personnel. Despite this, no universal test has yet to be developed for this purpose. There are only local tests available on the market. Among them is a computer-delivered English proficiency test which is administered for a globally recognized flight company in Turkey. This test is implemented for flight attendants and has important consequences such as suspending flights until the required level of English is achieved in the test. Thus, test-takers' perceptions of the test are significant as they experience these impacts first-hand. This study, therefore, explored flight attendants' test-taking experiences. 26 flight attendants participated in this study. Semi-structured interviews and two focus group sessions were held to collect data and evidence. The findings showed that the respondents had concerns for test administration including the issues such as physical conditions of the setting, timing of the test, and test format. Although they agreed that the test had a representative sampling of the language, they thought it lacked relevant components in accordance with their needs and level. They also reported the test content did not reflect work-related context. The study, therefore, provided implications and suggestions to improve the test considering the aviation context.

Keywords

  • Language testing
  • Civil aviation
  • Computer-delivered tests
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