IALLTEACH (Issues In Applied Linguistics & Language Teaching)
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Issues in Applied Linguistics and Language Teaching

Students’ Perspectives Towards English Academic Competence Test (TKA)

Roobby Hamdanur (Politeknik Negeri Medan)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study focuses on examining students’ perceptions of the English Academic Competence Test (TKA). The study employed a quantitative descriptive design involving 40 high school students in Medan, Indonesia, who were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire consisting of 20 items and covering five dimensions: general perception, level of difficulty and comprehension, test-taking experience, impact on learning, and obstacles and expectations. The instrument validation results indicated that 15 items were deemed valid, and the instrument demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.861). Descriptive statistical analysis indicates that students generally have a positive perception of the English TKA, with an overall mean score of 3.03. The “impact on learning” dimension received the highest mean score (M = 3.23), suggesting that students view the TKA as beneficial in helping identify weaknesses and supporting improvements in English proficiency. However, students still face difficulties in vocabulary mastery, reading comprehension, and questions requiring higher-order thinking skills (HOTS). These findings imply the need to strengthen literacy, enrich vocabulary, and develop critical thinking skills in English language learning to improve students’ readiness for academic assessments.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

iallteach

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

The language, be it verbal or non-verbal, has been the primary medium of human interactions to take place. However, there still seems to be a little attempt for a thorough investigations in understanding problematic issues that may emerge because of the language. Issues in Applied Linguistics & ...