OPEN BOOK EXAMINATION: CHALLENGES AND WAYS TO DEAL
WITH IT SUCCESSFULLY

Mrs.Rosamma Joseph, Professor,
Page No. 1-5

An "open book examination" is an assessment method designed in a way that allows students to
refer to either class notes and summaries or a “memory aid”, textbooks, or other approved material
while answering questions. Open book examinations may be restricted resources type or
unrestricted resources type. It can be given as the traditional sit down/ limited time examination or
take-home open book exams. Open book exams have profound effects on student’s learning
strategies as well as teaching. Benefits of open book exams are significant and include ability of
students to use higher order thinking. As open book exams are more challenging than traditional
exams students need to prepare for them properly. Teachers need to modify methods of teaching as
well as the types of questions used for evaluation. Though it is challenging for both teachers and
students, it’s very much useful if used properly.
Keywords : Open book examination, traditional closed book examination, assessment, teaching,
learning strategies