College English Test:Reliability,Validity and Washback Effect

摘要

The intent of this paper is to evaluate College English Test(CET)’s reliability,validity and washback effect in the con⁃text of language assessment by applying Brown’s framework of test usefulness.The result of literature review and discussion shows that CET’s student-related reliability and rater reliability for writing section are unfavorable while its test administration reliability and rater reliability for CETSET has been increasing;CET’s content and construct validity are getting improved but its criterionrelated validity has been violated due to students’inappropriate learning attitude;CET’s negative washback has been caused due to the overemphasis on passing rate,but previous surveys shows positive washback in teaching and learning as students’reading and oral communication abilities have been improved.In the end,three suggestions for CET’s development are summed up:empha⁃sis less on test result;inform students with the significance of CET’s reform;the relationship among testing,teaching and learning should be built into a mutual promotion format.