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CBSE to conduct open book exams? Here are all the developments yet

According to media sources, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is exploring the possibility of implementing Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students in Classes 9 to 12, in line with the recommendations of the new National Curriculum Framework released last year. A trial is being planned by the Board of open book tests in chosen schools for subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science for classes 9 and 10, and English, Mathematics, and Biology for Classes 11 and 12.

It was stated that a trial of the open-book format will be carried out in specific schools during November-December this year. This trial aims to evaluate the duration taken by students to complete these tests and to gauge the reactions of stakeholders. After reviewing the results, the board will take a decision regarding the implementation across schools 9-12th.

The committee also deliberated on the suggestion of having teachers undertake open book exams initially to grasp the concept, suggesting a standardized benchmark akin to the Advanced Placement examination in the United States.

The pilot programme will evaluate high order thinking skills, including application, analysis, critical and creative thinking and problem solving abilities. The Board aims to complete the design and development of the OBE pilot by June and has opted to seek guidance from Delhi University (DU). Despite encountering resistance, DU implemented open-book tests in August 2020 during the Covid pandemic, which had disrupted the academic calendar.

What are open book tests?

During an open-book exam, students are allowed to consult their notes, textbooks, or other study materials while taking the test.

Contrary to common belief, open-book exams (OBEs) are not inherently simpler than closed-book exams. The evaluation emphasizes a student’s comprehension of the subject matter and their capacity to analyze or apply concepts, rather than assessing memory alone.

As the primary emphasis of an open text-based assessment (OBTA) is on assessing students’ higher-order thinking abilities, it diverges from the typical exam structure by furnishing students with materials four months ahead of the examination. This allows them to incorporate case studies into the assessment.

Throughout the examination, students are encouraged to consult their notes or textbooks, fostering critical thinking as opposed to relying solely on memorization for exam achievement.