Factors Affecting Washback in EFL Classrooms of Iran: The Vital Role of English Teachers

This study examines washback in Iranian EFL classrooms, focusing on teachers as the most critical factor. Conducted at Shahid Chamran University in Ahvaz, the qualitative research involved semi-structured interviews with four English teachers. Thematic analysis using NVivo identified four main themes: Curriculum Adaptation, pedagogical Strategies, Collaboration and Resources, Reflection and improvement. Findings show that assessments directly shape curriculum content and student motivation, while also encouraging collaborative and reflective teaching practices. The study concludes that teacher quality and agency are central in mediating washback effects, suggesting that effective teachers can significantly determine the nature and extent of test influence on educational processes.

کلیدواژه ها:

Washback ، EFL classroom ، Teacher's role ، Curriculum adaptation ، Pedagogical strategies