Nasim Ghanbari

In traditional language testing, test-takers are tested on knowledge that has already been defined and shaped by testers who are in authority. As an isolated activity, tests are developed with little consideration for the stakeholders involved (Lynch, 1997; Shohamy, 2001). This is rooted in the fact that use of the test in the context and for a particular group of test-takers is not the concern here. Rather, the development of psychometrically sound tests which embody the intentions of their developers is strongly pursued. Apparently, in this unequal power relationship, test takers have no voice and they have to merely comply with the decisions made by testers. A critical view of language testing, however, questions the passive role of test-takers who have been long viewed as black boxes in the testing process (Lynch, 2001; Shohamy, 2001).