CBSE Considers Open-Book Exams for Classes 9-12: Pilot Run will start by November

New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is exploring the possibility of introducing Open Book Examinations (OBE) for students of Classes 9 to 12, aligning with the recommendations of the new National Curriculum Framework (NCF) released in 2023.

Pilot Run Planned:

Sources reveal that the Board is proposing a pilot run of open-book tests in select schools later this year. English, Mathematics, and Science will be tested for Classes 9 and 10, while English, Mathematics, and Biology will be covered for Classes 11 and 12. This pilot program, scheduled for November-December 2024, aims to assess student completion time and stakeholder feedback before considering wider implementation.

What are Open-Book Exams?

Unlike traditional closed-book exams, OBEs allow students to bring notes, textbooks, and other study materials during the examination for reference. However, this doesn't imply easier tests. OBEs typically assess higher-order thinking skills, application, analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, requiring students to go beyond rote memorization and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the subject.

Delhi University's Experience:

The Board plans to consult Delhi University (DU) regarding the OBE pilot design and development. DU previously implemented open-book tests in 2020 during the pandemic, facing legal challenges due to concerns about accessibility for underprivileged and differently-abled students. Despite the challenges, DU successfully conducted OBEs for final-year students, offering additional time for PwD students to ensure inclusivity.

Moving Forward:

The CBSE curriculum committee acknowledges the need for high-quality textbooks to support this new assessment method and ensure student readiness. Additionally, some members propose a "teacher-first" approach, where teachers take the open-book exam to grasp the concept and develop high-quality OBE materials, potentially using the Advanced Placement (AP) exam format as a benchmark.

Impact and Significance:

This potential shift towards OBEs could significantly impact teaching and learning approaches in CBSE schools. If successful, OBEs could encourage deeper learning, critical thinking, and application of knowledge. However, careful consideration regarding accessibility, resource availability, and teacher training is crucial for successful implementation.