The Effect of Machiavellianism on EFL Listening Comprehension: Test-taking Strategies in Focus

This study investigated the influence of Machiavellianism on listening comprehension among ۵۰ Iranian lower-intermediate EFL learners, a topic largely unexplored in applied linguistics. Using a quasi-experimental design, participants were assessed via the Oxford Quick Placement Test, MACH-IV for Machiavellianism levels, and a paper-based TOEFL listening section. They received instruction in listening test-taking strategies from the Longman Complete Course for the TOEFL Test. Independent samples t-tests revealed no significant differences in listening comprehension between high- and low-Machiavellianism groups. Additionally, ANCOVA results showed that test-taking strategies instruction did not differentially affect listening comprehension across Machiavellianism levels. These findings suggest that this particular personality trait has a limited role in predicting listening performance. The study contributes theoretical insights into this personality trait's weak effect on listening and offers practical implications for strategy instruction in EFL contexts. The findings reveal that such training may be equally beneficial regardless of learners' Machiavellian tendencies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Lower-Level Mach ، Higher-Level Mach ، Listening Comprehension ، Machiavellianism ، Test-Taking skills