Online examination has become a norm in Pakistan due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, this shift to virtual testing has brought with it a number of problems that need to be addressed.
One of the main issues with online exams in Pakistan is the lack of access to technology. Many students in rural areas do not have access to a reliable internet connection or a computer, making it difficult for them to take the exam. Even in urban areas, students may struggle with outdated equipment or a lack of electricity. These technical difficulties can lead to interruptions during the exam and ultimately affect the performance of the students.
Another problem with online exams in Pakistan is the issue of cheating. In a traditional in-person exam, cheating is relatively easy to detect and prevent. However, online exams offer students the opportunity to cheat in a variety of ways, such as sharing answers or using cheat sheets. This can lead to an unfair advantage for some students and ultimately undermine the integrity of the exam.
In addition to these issues, there are also problems with the administration of online exams in Pakistan. Many universities and educational institutions are not well equipped to handle the technical aspects of online exams, such as setting up the platform and ensuring the security of the exam. This can lead to confusion and delays, making the process more difficult for both students and educators.
One of the major problem is the lack of trained staff to conduct online exams. Many universities and educational institutions are not well-equipped to handle the technical aspects of online exams, such as setting up the platform and ensuring the security of the exam. This can lead to confusion and delays, making the process more difficult for both students and educators.
Moreover, online exams also cause a lot of stress for students. The pressure to perform well in an online exam is greater than in a traditional in-person exam. This is because students cannot rely on their body language or facial expressions to communicate their understanding of the material, and may feel more isolated and disconnected from their peers.
Another problem with online exams is the difficulty of testing students with special needs. These students may require additional accommodations, such as extended time or the use of assistive technology, which can be difficult to provide in an online format.
In conclusion, online exams in Pakistan are facing a number of problems that need to be addressed. These include a lack of access to technology, cheating, and difficulty in administering the exam. To address these problems, universities and educational institutions need to invest in better technology and training, as well as developing policies to prevent cheating. Additionally, it is important to provide accommodations for students with special needs, to ensure that online exams are accessible to all students. Only then can the online examination system in Pakistan be truly fair and effective.