Implementing E-portfolios in English Speaking Assessment: Vietnamese Students’ Perspectives

Abstract

English speaking is an essential skill that university students need to develop, particularly those studying in non-native English-speaking countries. However, research has shown that traditional assessment methods such as standardized tests and oral exams may not always accurately capture students' speaking ability, which highlights the need for alternative assessment methods that can better evaluate students' language proficiency. E-portfolio assessment is one such alternative that has emerged as a promising method. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the perspectives of 268 Vietnamese university students on the use of e-portfolios for English-speaking assessment through a survey questionnaire. The findings reveal students’ positive attitudes towards the application of e-portfolios in speaking assessment in terms of washback and self-regulated learning. The study also delves deeper into the potential of e-portfolio assessment for English-speaking proficiency in Vietnamese higher education. It hopes to contribute to pedagogical implications to improve the efficacy of teaching and learning English speaking in Vietnamese higher education with regard to the use of e-portfolios.