Turkish EFL Learners’ Perceptions of the European Language Portfolio as a Self-Assessment Tool

This study investigated using the European Language Portfolio (ELP) in foreign language classes with a focus on learners’ perceptions about using it as a self-assessment tool. It was also within the scope of this study to find out whether instruction in the use of the ELP had an impact on learners’ views about using it. Participants were 160 tertiary level students from a state university on the Black Sea Coast of Turkey. This quasi-experimental study was based on a mixed-methods research design, making use of both quantitative and qualitative data. An ELP Opinionaire developed by the researcher was administered after the ELP instruction whose aim was to inform the participants about the ELP use and raise awareness of its use, function and benefits. Semi-structured interviews were held with 12 participants who were chosen on a voluntary basis in order to validate the quantitative data. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 29, and the qualitative data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the way self-assessment via the ELP is implemented is a factor affecting learners’ perceptions.