Machine summary:
"On the Consequential Validity of ESP Tests: A Qualitative Study in Iran Gholam Reza Kiani Tarbiat Modares University Goodarz Alibakhshi 1 Yasouj University Ramin Akbari Tarbiat Modares University Consequential validity, a component of construct validity as a unified concept introduced by Messick(1989), deals with the impacts of tests on teaching, learning, individual test takers, teachers, society, and educational system within a country.
The present study aimed at exploring the possible consequences of ESP tests, as parts of master and doctoral entrance examinations to post graduate universities in Iran, on the stake holders and society.
The results indicated that ESP tests have negative psychological (anxiety, stress, disappointment, self-confidence, teaching efficacy, disappointment), social (deprivation from education, ethical issues, acceptance of nonqualified candidates), financial, and family consequences on the learners and teachers.
In doing so, the following research question was raised: What impacts do ESP/ EAP tests have on the life of candidates for post graduate studies as well as the system of higher education at Iranian universities?
In line with findings of the above mentioned impact studies, the results of the present study indicated that master and doctoral ESP tests administered as national entrance examination to Iranian state universities influence learners , ESP teachers, and society in different ways.
Not unlike the findings of washback studies, the results of the study indicated that social consequences of ESP tests including deprivation from high education, unfairness, and acceptance of unqualified candidates are all negative."