A new survey conducted by Ofqual, the exams regulator in the UK, has found that only a fifth of parents believe that their children should take all their GCSE and A-level exams using pen and paper. Dr. Jo Saxton, who heads Ofqual, will reveal this finding at an upcoming education conference. According to the survey, both students and parents have reservations about moving exams online completely, but they are in favor of incorporating some digital assessment alongside traditional pen and paper scripts.
One of the concerns expressed by parents and pupils is the potential impact on writing stamina. Some exams can last up to three hours, requiring students to sustain their writing abilities throughout. To address this, exam boards have started piloting screen assessments and have already made online adaptations to certain parts of the GCSE computer science exams.
Ofqual’s polling reveals that 48 percent of students and 54 percent of parents prefer a combination of screen assessment and traditional pen and paper. This suggests that while there is a growing interest in incorporating digital assessments, there is still a strong belief in the importance of writing skills developed through pen and paper exams.
The move towards digital exams can bring numerous benefits, including increased accessibility, the potential for automated marking, and a more efficient exam process. However, it is necessary to strike a balance between the convenience and efficiency of digital assessments and the significance of writing skills developed through traditional methods. Therefore, a mixed approach seems to be the preferred choice among students and parents.
It is worth noting that transitioning exams online completely may pose some challenges. Issues such as internet connectivity, access to digital devices, and concerns about the security and integrity of online assessments need to be addressed.
As the education sector evolves, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders, including students, parents, and educators. The move towards digital assessments should be a gradual process, ensuring that it enhances the learning experience while maintaining the integrity and fairness of examinations.
In conclusion, Ofqual’s survey highlights a growing interest in incorporating digital assessments in exams. While the majority of parents and pupils still value the importance of pen and paper exams, there is an acknowledgment of the benefits that online assessments can bring. Striking a balance between the two approaches seems to be the preferred choice, enabling students to develop both their writing skills and adapt to digital tools. As the education sector continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that any changes in assessment methods are implemented in a way that maintains fairness, accessibility, and the quality of education.
