HYDERABAD: A study on examination reforms for school education in the State has favoured introduction of a grading system for evaluating examinations instead of the current ranking system to eliminate unhealthy competition.

The study by global consulting major, Ernst & Young, has also prescribed an Absolute Grading Pattern (AGP) which could be used with a value point between one and nine for each grade. For example, when an A plus is awarded for those scoring above 90 per cent in a subject, the corresponding value point will be 9.

The study, commissioned by the Centre for Good Governance (CGG), focussed the unhealthy competition removed by the Kerala Government in Class ten assessment by introducing a grading system for evaluation from 2004-05.

The Government also adopted the AGP in the above mode.

The main findings of the study included lack of coordination with the State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) in preparation of examination papers, mainly for Classes seven and ten.

Lack of usage of technology in examination process, including sending question papers on-line to the regional offices and districts instead of physical delivery, and absence of special examinations for identifying rural talent were also highlighted.

It was felt that on-line transmission of question papers would save time and avoid malpractices like paper leakage.

It recommended an expert academic council consisting of educational experts to review the existing examination pattern and incorporate evolving benchmark practices.

A bar coding system could be introduced for coding of answer scripts to maintain confidentiality and objectivity.

The newly introduced bar code system on answer books had helped achieve the objective to a great extent in Maharashtra.

The study noted the absence of a mechanism to grade schools based on the quality of teaching and performance, which could serve as a quick help guide for parents.

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