Desi beats for new examshala: Kholo Kholo Kitaab

CBSE approving open book exams for class 9 appears to be a leaf directly out of the books of Lalu Prasad or Mulayam Singh Yadav. Remember the hue and cry when their governments allowed the so-called ‘cheating’ (chori) during examinations. Who can forget the images of students’ family and friends sticking to the walls of examination halls like a gecko to help their wards crack the code?

The proponents of open book exams claim the move will help improve critical thinking. Although it’s very tough to vouch for the accuracy of the assertion, it’s beyond doubt that some students may still seek help from their classmates in examination halls. Plausibly, perennial seekers may ask for:

a) Page numbers where answers are available.

b) Paragraphs where responses are hidden.
c) Sentences that particularly can be a real helping hand.
d) Words, numbers or formulae that are the keys.

The open book system will clearly lessen the burden on such constant explorers, but the art of making, hiding and carrying chits and using them during exams may slowly fade into oblivion. CBSE can support future critical thinkers by listing out subject books that can be carried inside examination halls.

Teachers/invigilators may feel relaxed as it won’t be required of them to keep an eye on examinees through their occipital lobes or on the so-called jiggery-pokery happening under various tables. They can chill under the fan, sip their cup of tea and, time permitting, chitchat about their next plan. Considering the avowed purpose of the open book system, exam proctors may be a hindrance to critical thinking, which can flourish only in an encumbrance-free environment. Best option would be to let students be free birds in exam halls as only an uncaged avifauna can have freedom of thought.