FoELT 2025 - Comparing multiple choice and open ended items in listening tests

Test developers recognise that the choice of item type in second language listening tests affects difficulty, discrimination, validity, and authenticity, while teachers want to understand how particular item types influence classroom listening instruction. Both groups share an interest in how item types engage the range of listening processes involved in real-world communication. Building on previous research and original data from a UK EAP programme, this presentation examined how two common item types engaged listening processes and impacted test scores. A pre-existing set of multiple-choice items was rewritten as short-answer tasks and administered to 60 learners. Participants reported their comprehension levels and approaches, offering valuable insights into item difficulty, discrimination, and the strategies each task type elicited. The findings provide key implications for both listening pedagogy and test preparation, highlighting how task format shapes learner performance and the depth of understanding required to answer successfully. Trinity College London is a leading international exam board that exists to promote and foster communicative and performance skills through assessment, content and training covering music, drama and English Language. Alongside an ongoing programme of quality teacher support initiatives and resources, Trinity College London offers a range of respected and recognised English teaching qualifications and courses designed to support teachers throughout their careers — from early practitioner to experienced professional. Find courses and learn more at trinitycollege.com/TESOL . #FoELT2025 #FoELT #FutureOfELT #ELT #professionaldevelopment #englishteachers #teachertraining #tesol #edtech