CBSE plans open-book exams: This is how the format has fared

Why in the News?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has decided to introduce open-book assessments (OBE) for Class 9 students from the 2026–27 academic year, following a successful pilot study in 2023 that showed strong teacher support.

Background

• Pilot Study: Conducted in Nov–Dec 2023 for English, Mathematics, and Science in Classes 9 & 10, and for English, Mathematics, and Biology in Classes 11 & 12.
• History Globally: Open-book exams have existed since the 1950s, with trials in Hong Kong, the US, and the UK showing mostly positive outcomes, though challenges remain.
• India’s Earlier Attempts: CBSE introduced the Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) in 2014 for Classes 9 & 11 to move away from rote learning, but dropped it in 2017–18 due to limited success in building critical thinking.
• Higher Education Use: Open-book formats are already used in Indian universities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Features

• Definition: Students use approved materials (textbooks, class notes) during assessments, but the challenge lies in interpreting and applying knowledge rather than recalling facts.
• Learning Focus: Encourages connection between ideas, analytical thinking, and concept application.

Research Findings:

• Students in OBEs tend to perform better in problem-solving and connection-making.
• Some studies highlight that training in how to use the format is crucial for success.
• Weak students sometimes benefit more, as rote memorisation plays a smaller role.

Implementation Scope:

• Will be introduced in Class 9 from 2026–27, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on competency-based learning.

Way Forward

• Teacher Training: Equip educators to design OBE-friendly questions that assess analysis, evaluation, and synthesis skills.
• Student Orientation: Familiarise students with the OBE format and how to approach open-ended problem-solving.
• Gradual Scaling: Start with limited subjects, expand based on feedback and performance analysis.
• Assessment Innovation: Use OBEs alongside other assessment methods to capture a holistic view of learning outcomes.

Conclusion

The CBSE’s move towards OBEs aligns with NEP 2020’s vision of shifting from rote learning to competency-based education. While the approach has shown promise internationally and in higher education, its success in schools will depend on effective teacher preparation, student training, and careful design of assessment questions. If implemented well, OBEs could foster deeper learning, critical thinking, and better real-world problem-solving skills among students.