England’s qualifications regulator, Ofqual, has announced plans for students to take some of their GCSEs and A-levels on laptops by the end of the decade. This move comes in response to growing concerns over writing fatigue among students, many of whom report that their hand muscles are not strong enough to endure lengthy exam periods. A three-month public consultation has been launched to explore the introduction of onscreen assessments.
Under the proposed changes, each of the four major exam boards will be invited to create two new onscreen exam specifications. These will focus on subjects with fewer than 100,000 entries, meaning GCSE maths would not qualify, while subjects like GCSE German could be included. Despite the potential benefits, there are notable concerns regarding equitable access to devices, cybersecurity, and the possibility of technical failures during exams. Furthermore, schools would need to accommodate larger desks for computers, as well as ensure that students use designated devices rather than their personal laptops.
Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator at Ofqual, emphasized that the transition to online assessments would be approached cautiously. He stated, “We must maintain the standards and fairness that define England’s qualifications system.” Bauckham reassured the public that traditional pen-and-paper exams would continue to play a vital role in the assessment landscape, stating that any shift to onscreen exams must be managed carefully to protect the interests of all students.
Teachers have expressed concerns that students who predominantly use keyboards have lost their ability to write by hand effectively. Bauckham noted anecdotal evidence of students struggling with handwriting stamina, with many voicing issues such as poor handwriting or difficulty holding a pen for extended periods. On the other hand, he acknowledged the argument that the mechanical process of handwriting contributes significantly to cognitive development, a benefit not replicated in onscreen assessments.
Research from University College London has indicated that students who utilized keyboards during exams tended to achieve higher scores. The study compared the performance of state school pupils writing essays by hand versus using word processors under mock exam conditions. Notably, all students, including those with learning difficulties, demonstrated considerable improvements in their scores when allowed to use technology.
Currently, onscreen assessments comprise a minimal portion of GCSE and A-level evaluations in England, primarily within computer science subjects. Students are permitted to use keyboards for exams if their school or examination centre allows it, particularly as a reasonable adjustment for those with identified difficulties. Bauckham reported that students’ preferences are divided, with half favoring onscreen assessments for their perceived ease, while others prefer the traditional pen-and-paper format due to its familiarity and seriousness.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the growing interest in onscreen exams, stating, “Aligning assessment with an increasingly digital world could bring valuable benefits, including for children with special educational needs and disabilities.” She emphasized the importance of a phased and controlled transition to ensure fairness for all students.
The public consultation will remain open until March 5, 2024. If the proposed changes receive approval, the new specifications will be implemented in schools three years prior to the first examinations, anticipated around 2030. Steve Rollett, deputy chief executive at the Confederation of School Trusts, expressed support for the integration of technology in assessments but highlighted the necessity for careful implementation and appropriate safeguards.
Additionally, Myles McGinley, managing director of the Cambridge OCR exam board, underlined the need for substantial support to address the digital divide, including improved access to technology and training for educators. “Equipping our young people to thrive in this changing world will require collaboration: more research, government support, and regulatory guidance,” McGinley stated.
As discussions around onscreen assessments evolve, the focus remains on ensuring that any changes enhance the educational experience while maintaining the integrity and fairness of England’s qualifications system.
