Education
CBSE considering Open Book Exams for classes 9-12, to do a pilot run in November
In an innovative step towards modernising education, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is exploring the introduction of Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students in Classes 9 to 12. This initiative aligns with the latest recommendations from the new National Curriculum Framework, according to reports from The Indian Express.
The CBSE plans to conduct a pilot run of this progressive examination format in select schools later this year. The subjects chosen for this pilot include English, Mathematics, and Science for Classes 9 and 10, and English, Mathematics, and Biology for Classes 11 and 12. This preliminary phase aims to gauge the duration students require to complete the tests and gather feedback from all stakeholders involved.
Open Book Examinations allow students to refer to their notes, textbooks, and other study materials during the exam. Contrary to perceptions that this makes exams easier, OBEs often present a more significant challenge. They are designed to assess students’ comprehension of the material, analytical abilities, and their capacity to apply concepts in various contexts, rather than mere rote memorisation.
Scheduled for November-December this year, the pilot’s outcomes will be instrumental in determining whether CBSE will implement this assessment method across all affiliated schools for the specified classes. The focus of these exams will be on evaluating students’ higher-order thinking skills, including analysis, critical and creative thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
In preparation for the pilot, CBSE is set to finalise the design and development of the OBE model by June. The board seeks to collaborate with Delhi University (DU), which had previously adopted open book tests in August 2020 amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, despite facing opposition. This move disrupted the traditional academic calendar and paved the way for alternative assessment methods.
During discussions in the curriculum committee meeting, it was suggested that teachers should initially undertake open book exams themselves. This approach will help them grasp the concept more thoroughly and aid in the creation of quality OBE materials, potentially mirroring the standard of the Advanced Placement exams used for college entrance in the United States.
This step by CBSE, as reported by The Indian Express, marks a significant shift towards enhancing educational assessments and is poised to transform the way students learn and are evaluated, promoting a deeper understanding and application of knowledge.
(With inputs from The Indian Express)