What new format has been proposed by the CBSE?
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is thinking about having Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students in Classes 9 to 12. They want to test this new exam idea in a few schools first. In Classes 9 and 10, students would take OBEs for English, Math, and Science. For Classes 11 and 12, it would be English, Math, and Biology.
They plan to try out this new type of exam in November and December 2024. CBSE will see how long students take to finish these tests and ask for feedback from everyone involved. Then CBSE will decide whether to use this format in all schools.
CBSE wants to try this new test style because it was suggested in the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. The NCF-SE recommends this format as it can help students feel less worried and be better at solving problems by using formulas and definitions instead of only memorising them.
What is an open-book exam?
An open-book exam is a test where students can use their textbooks, notes, etc., to answer questions. These tests differ from closed-book exams because they focus on more than just memorising information. They also test critical thinking and using what you know.
Is an open-book exam easier?
We might think using notes or textbooks during exams would make the test easier. However, open-book exams can actually be more challenging than closed-book ones.
That's because this format tests how well students understand a subject and can use what they know instead of just memorising facts. In an open-book exam, students need to really understand and explain concepts rather than just remembering and writing them down.
