- In line with the latest recommendations of the NCFSE, the CBSE has put forth a proposal to introduce Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students in classes 9 to 12.
- The CBSE suggests conducting a trial phase of open-book tests in selected schools for English, Mathematics, and Science subjects for classes 9 and 10.
- And the same will be tried for English, Mathematics, and Biology for classes 11 and 12 later in the current academic year.
- Previous experiments with Open Text Based Assessment (OTBA) for classes 9 and 11 during the academic years 2014-15 to 2016-17 yielded negative responses from both students and academicians.
- Scheduled for November-December of the current year, the pilot run will determine whether this form of assessment will be implemented across all CBSE-affiliated schools for classes 9 to 12.
- CBSE plans to seek input from Delhi University (DU) regarding this matter.
Under the latest recommendations of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE), the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has put forth a proposal to introduce Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students in classes 9 to 12.
The CBSE suggests conducting a trial phase of open-book tests in selected schools for English, Mathematics, and Science subjects for classes 9 and 10, and for English, Mathematics, and Biology for classes 11 and 12 later in the current academic year. This initiative aims to gauge stakeholder feedback and evaluate the time students require to complete such assessments.
Previous experiments with Open Text Based Assessment (OTBA) for classes 9 and 11 during the academic years 2014-15 to 2016-17 yielded negative responses from both students and academicians.
Scheduled for November-December of the current year, the pilot run will determine whether this form of assessment will be implemented across all CBSE-affiliated schools for classes 9 to 12. CBSE plans to seek input from Delhi University (DU) regarding this matter.
Despite initial student opposition, Delhi University introduced open-book exams during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring students to bring their answer sheets, electronic devices, study materials, and sanitizers to minimize physical contact.
The essence of open-book examinations lies in assessing students’ higher-order thinking skills, departing from traditional examination formats. Unlike conventional exams, where rote learning often prevails, open-book assessments allow students to refer to their notes or textbooks while answering questions, fostering critical thinking.
Under the previous OTBA system by CBSE, students were provided with text material four months before the exam and permitted to bring case studies. This approach encourages students to think critically and move away from memorization-based learning methods typically associated with exam preparation.
(With inputs from agencies)
