While much debate has taken place over the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)’s pilot project to introduce open book exams (OBE) for Classes 9 to 12, on an experimental basis, in November-December this year, diverse opinions are being expressed about its success going by the current assessment process, focused on measuring rote learning.

     The aim behind OBE is to replace rote learning with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, enabling the students to apply them in the real world. The CBSE wants to ascertain the time taken by students to complete such tests and gather feedback.

   Delhi University is helping the Board with the pilot test, which is expected to be ready by June 2024.  The OBE is expected to cover subjects such as English, Mathematics and Science for Classes 9 and 10, and English, Mathematics and Biology for Classes 11 and 12.

   The CBSE plans to....