Open Book Examination a Paradigm Shift

Language curriculum development processes are typically seen as needs analysis, goal setting, syllabus design, methodology and evaluation. This paper deals with the possibility of exploring a textbook in the examination hall. Open book examination, unlike the conventional exam procedures, demands the learners to apply their understanding of the subject rather than mere regurgitation. This venture on the application of the concepts/ theories to real life issues is not only a challenging task for the candidates but also for the question paper setter. Further this examination is an exercise in logical thinking in that the candidate aims to reach the desired goal within a stipulated timeframe. Besides destressing the students' from exam blues, Open book examination evaluates the creative and critical faculties of the learners.
A survey was conducted by administering a structured questionnaire to students of National Institute of Technology (NIT), Trichy. The data was collected from a random sample of 75 students. The questionnaire aimed at eliciting responses regarding their attitude towards open book examination. The data thus obtained was subjected to analysis and presented in this paper. Qualitative discussions were also conducted with ELT experts.