HAROON RASHID BHAT
“By adopting this innovative mode of examination,SKUAST-K- reaffirms its commitment for a sustainable development.”
Like every other aspect of life, technology has impacted the entire education process. However, the purpose remains the same: to impart knowledge and wisdom to students. But, with the introduction of modern technology, this process become teacher/student friendly. In recent developments,the usage of tablets in examinations has become a common practice globally. Tablets, also known as e-tablets or digital exam tools, are designed to provide a more efficient and effective way of administering exams. They allow for real-time scoring, instant feedback, and data analysis, making it easier for instructors to assess student knowledge and understanding. Additionally, tablets can reduce paper waste, encourage active learning, and provide students with a more engaging and interactive exam experience. It is a matter of prestige that SKUAST-K became the first North Indian University that introduce thepaperless examination; replacing the traditional system that was time-consuming and expensive. While interacting with students who appeared in recently held examinations underthis mode, they expressed their satisfaction. According to them, the University held an orientation program for the concerned staff as well as the students to give the practical shape of this entire process. Practical sessions were conducted with the intent to enable them to use the modern tool properly. Though it is a new experience for students, they may initially face difficulties concerning the proper grip of the pen, alignment issues, drawing, etc. But over time, they will surely enhance their ability to writeon this new examination tool. Besides the student-friendly, this new system has a direct bearing on our time, economy, and environment. Let us deliberate upon it.
Time: The process of administering paper-based assessments is a lengthy one. It can take several months to complete the cycle from administering the forms to collecting and analyzing the results to sharing reports and acting on the feedback obtained. As instructors do not receive results quickly, valuable time is lost in responding to student concerns and implementing possible course changes.
Economy: A major disadvantage of using paper assessments is the high cost associated with the process. The number of personnel involved as well as the printing, distributing, scanning, rekeying, filing and archiving is very costly. When institutions move to digitalized systems.Thesecosts can be reduced significantly.
Environment:The Examination Table tool promotes an eco-friendly environment.A lot of paper is needlessly wasted in the traditional evaluation process. Wasting such a valuable environmental resource often goes against the institution’s ‘green’ initiatives and university-wide goals. By going digital, the tool helps minimize the destruction of trees and preserves natural habitats. Additionally, digital examination tables also reduce waste and carbon emissions associated with manufacturing. This innovation takes a crucial step towards a more sustainable environment, ensuring a greener future for our planet and its precious trees. One tree can produce up to 10,000 sheets of paper, so saving trees by going digital can have a significant impact. It’s estimated that digitizing a single paper-based survey can save up to 17 trees. By switching to digital surveys, we can significantly reduce deforestation and support reforestation efforts. Every little bit counts, and making this simple switch can make a big difference in promoting sustainability. By adopting this innovative mode of examination,SKUAST-K- reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable environment. Let us embrace this new method for the sake of our environment.
It was not a cake walk for the University to give this process the pragmatic shape. It involves a lot of hardwork , commitment and dedication.They have taken it as a challenge, showed their zeal and zest and finally they succeeded in their mission. A lot of apprecication goes to the worthy Vice Chancellor- Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai, controller examination- SKUAST-K and his entire team.
Haroon Rashid Bhat is a teacher and columnist, can be reached at minamharoon123@gmail.com.
