New Delhi, August 10
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce open book assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session, the governing body decided at its meeting in June.
According to the minutes, the NCFSE 2023 "underscores the need to transition from rote memorisation to competency-based learning, with OBAs serving as a catalyst for this shift."
The strategy, approved by the curriculum committee and ratified by the governing body, proposes that OBAs be part of the three pen-paper tests conducted each term in languages, mathematics, science and social science.
The decision draws on a pilot study that avoided additional reading materials and tested cross-cutting themes from the curriculum. Student scores ranged from 12 per cent to 47 per cent, revealing "challenges in effectively utilising resources and grasping interdisciplinary concepts." Despite this, the minutes note that "teachers expressed optimism about OBAs, noting their potential to foster critical thinking."
To ensure quality, CBSE will develop standardised sample papers and provide structured guidance to help students navigate reference materials and apply knowledge contextually.
The board expects the initiative to reduce exam stress, encourage real-world application of knowledge, and strengthen conceptual understanding.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a teacher, I'm worried about implementation. The pilot scores show students struggled (12-47% range). We need proper teacher training first. Good intention but execution must be careful.
Open book doesn't mean easy! In IIT we had open book exams that were toughest because they tested understanding. CBSE moving in right direction for 21st century skills.
My daughter is in Class 8 now. This change comes at perfect time! Less stress during exams and more focus on learning. Hope other boards like ICSE also adopt this.
Concerned about rural schools - will they get same reference materials as city schools? Education reforms must bridge urban-rural divide, not widen it.
Good step but what about cheating? In our school during online exams, students shared answers via WhatsApp. How will CBSE prevent this in open book format?
Interesting move! In US we've had open book tests for years. Key is designing questions that require analysis, not just copying. Hope CBSE gets that right.
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