The cancellation of exams across many countries is seen as an unfortunate loss that could diminish learning. But other proponents advocate for ‘deep learning’ instead have seen this as an opportunity to finally axe exams. In England, Boris Johnson announced on the 4th of January that exams will not “go ahead as normal”. Gavin Williamson the Education Secretary confirmed in the House of Commons that he wished “to use a form of teacher assessment grades”. I am sure there are many reactions from the education community, families and the body of students. But, given that time has passed by, perhaps we have reflected on the positives of the situation. Add to this, online learning presents both opportunities and challenges.
Pupils can focus more than just the 'final exam'
England said it would replace all formal assessments with teacher assessments. Teacher assessments are likely to be given to students at crucial key points of the curriculum. The timing I suspect will be affected by school closures and lockdowns. However, the timing of the assessments will vary from school to school. Gavin Williamson also stated that training and support would be provided to ensure the grades would be awarded fairly and consistently across the country. Because assessments will be continuous, both teachers and pupils in theory will give more focus and attention. The importance of the assessments are certainly unmistakeable. And I am certain teachers will be shouting this down the school corridors.
teachers have a more concerted effort together with students
As a former teacher myself I recall exam week in my school as something we took seriously. Around this time pupils readily appreciated the importance of their performance and effort towards their final grade. I remember students yelling, “Sir, I don’t see the importance of these tests, I will just concentrate later before the final exam and I am sure I can master it’.
If used correctly and consistently by teachers, this can easily change pupils’ attitudes towards their learning. Tony Stack, a Canadian Educator developed a different approach to assess children such as ‘deep learning’. And this can be the best time to apply it. This alternative model prioritises skills and independent thinking. It can be made more accessible to students as opposed to focusing only on exams. Because they are assessing more often, the effects of the new approaches can be readily measured.
parents can easily by-in and support children at home
The principles of deep learning make it more accessible for parents to support their children in their learning. Even more so when they are not considered experts or have know-how. Parents can help their children become empowered through self-directed learning and the many benefits this approach offers. Especially so with further opportunities which home schooling presents due to COVID-19. Parents are now under considerable pressure to be active participants in their child’s education. Parents need to not only show interest but participate. In turn it has huge benefits on the attitude and performance of their children. Moreover, the fact that teacher assessments are used, this should serve as additional motivation to support children. Therefore, parents have to become champions of their children’s learning. Good parents should contact the school and ask for available support mechanism to facilitate this.
Extra tuition and parents empowerment
The role of tutoring could not be more important. Especially when the widening gap in attainment created by the number of school closures is increasing. I am a strong advocate for schools working towards empowering parents with skills to support their children’s learning. Due to inequality, not all the parents can afford extra tuition. Therefore, I am calling on schools to create a toolbox which parents can access to support the curriculum’s delivery in the best possible way. Especially now that teaching is done remotely.
final thoughts
Finally, there are obvious benefits obtained from having exams, but the impact this pandemic has meant this is not possible. Ofqual is the body in UK that regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments. Now, if that obligation is transferred to schools, it poses a threat. Schools must ensure a robust tool and grading mark is in place. Ofqual has signalled that they will launch a consultation on the plans to ensure delivery if fair and consistent.
In the meantime, it is clear pupils need to get support and continue to learn since at the end they will either face an exam or assessments in some shape or form.