A recently conducted study has shed light on the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) question papers, indicating potential areas for improvement. The examination, crucial for students in Nepal, has been under scrutiny for its question formulation and grading methods.
Conducted by a steering committee including prominent educators such as Dr. Mahashram Sharma and Prof. Dr. Hari Prasad Upadhyay, the study examined SEE question papers from 2075 to 2079 across various provinces. Surprisingly, the study found no significant difference in the difficulty levels of questions at the provincial level. This suggests a need for standardized examination practices across the board.
One key aspect highlighted by the study is the Examination Reform Center's (ERC) role in enhancing question papers. Despite efforts to improve, the ERC needs to focus on ensuring impartiality and consistency in question selection and grading methods.
Among the findings, the study pointed out grammatical errors in a substantial number of questions, totaling 777 across various subjects. Additionally, discrepancies were noted in the translation of Science subject questions among provinces, raising concerns about the accuracy and consistency of examinations.
Moreover, while the study acknowledged improvements in question papers from 2022 to 2023 compared to previous years, there is still room for enhancement. Recommendations include revising question formats, ensuring grammatical accuracy, and providing clearer guidelines for question placement and difficulty levels.
The study's revelations call for immediate attention from educational authorities to address the identified shortcomings and ensure a fair and standardized examination process for all students undertaking the SEE. As students' futures hinge on their performance in these exams, it is imperative to strive for excellence and equity in the education system.
