| Washback generally refers to the effect of testing on teaching and learning. Practical English Test for Colleges (PRETCO) is a large-scale standardized English proficiency test for students of higher vocational colleges (HVCs), junior colleges and night schools for adults. It has been about ten years since the first formal implementation of PRETCO but at present there are few empirical studies on its washback. Moreover, according to the author's limited literature, such a study might be conducted in Shanghai for the first time.This paper aims for an initial study on PRETCO washback in Shanghai, based on research methods and findings of some similar studies done in other context. The objectives of this study are to reveal whether PRETCO exerts washback on practical English teaching and learning, what teaching and learning aspects are affected, and what is the nature of PRETCO washback. Based on the findings of the research, constructive suggestions are put forward to enhance positive washback. The research involves 396 students in total from two HVCs in Shanghai and 71 teachers from 24 HVCs. Questionnaire survey is employed as the main research instrument, complemented by interview and classroom observation.The findings indicate that most teachers and students think PRETCO exerts more positive washback on their practical English teaching and learning, because it is in accordance with the basic course requirements, enhances the implementation of them, makes teaching objectives explicit and stimulates students'motivation. They also show that more test-oriented practice and misuse of test results lead to lower pass rate. In addition, students in Shanghai are more concerned with College English Test Band 4 and future employment, so a higher proportion of students in Shanghai do not think PRETCO exerts any washback on them. Besides, the participants'opinions diverge as to the use of test results, stress and anxiety caused by PRETCO and test-oriented practice. |
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