Exams are traditionally considered by many to be the most effective method to assess the level of knowledge and understanding a student has, yet a think tank recently suggested that with the emergence of ChatGPT, a form of generative AI, coursework would be less accurate and trustworthy. According to the think tank, EDSK, establishing for certain whether a pupil produced the work they submitted for a coursework-style task has become virtually impossible in the advent of ChatGPT.
As such, the report suggests that exams should still be the main method for assessing students’ knowledge and understanding. Additionally, a package of reforms must also be implemented in order to help students develop a broader range of skills. These include making pupils do coursework in class under direct supervision, as well as compulsory extended project qualifications (EPQ), a dissertation-style qualification.
Though the emergence of ChatGPT has made traditional exam conditions more important than ever, according to Ofqual’s Chief Regulator Jo Saxton, the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) thinks the education system should take a different approach. They feel that instead of just having academic exams, a blended mix of academic and vocational options should be offered to students, so that AI can be used to aid learning rather than viewed negatively as a means for cheating.
EDSK is an education think tank based in the UK that is dedicated to advancing education and skills through policy research and analysis. They work with a range of stakeholders including government, enterprise, researchers and public institutions. Ofqual is the UK Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, responsible for the regulation of qualifications, examinations and assessments in England. The Association of School and College Leaders is the only professional association in England, Wales and Northern Ireland representing school and college leaders. They provide training, advice, and representation to members.
