Delhi University considering open book exams for final semester students in July

Delhi University (DU) is planning to conduct an online 'Open Book' examination for the final semester students. The semester examinations will be conducted as per the guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in July.

Delhi University (DU) is planning to conduct an online 'Open Book' examination for the final semester students. The semester examinations will be conducted as per the guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in July.

During a meeting held recently, the newly constructed working committee said that it is considering the option to conduct the open book examination.

DU Indian National Teachers Congress, INTEC has not liked the proposal and has sent a memorandum to Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Tyagi opposing the proposal.

While talking to a noted media house, Pankaj Garg, mathematics professor, and INTEC convener said, “It is not a very good idea…Open book exams are meant not only to test the conceptual understanding of the students but also their ability to apply these concepts in real-life situations. They are best suited in disciplines that require testing based on direct reference to written materials. Students are evaluated on the basis of understanding rather than memorization.”

In the open book examination, students are allowed to access their study material such as textbooks, class and lecture notes, or any other approved resources like the internet during exams. As per the teachers, neither students nor teachers are ready for such exams, as they both are not trained for the same.