exams

An exam, or examination, is a formal assessment intended to measure a learner's knowledge, understanding, or ability in a defined area. Examinations are usually supervised and time-limited, and results are used to determine progression, certification, or eligibility. They can also provide accountability for institutions and individuals.

Exams vary by format. Common written formats include multiple-choice, short answer, and essay questions; oral examinations test spoken language or argumentation; and practical or performance-based assessments require demonstration of skills in labs, studios, clinics, or real-world tasks. Increasingly, computer-based testing is used and many assessments combine several formats in a single session.

Purpose and timing. Examinations can be summative, evaluating proficiency at the end of a course or program; or formative, offering feedback to guide learning and sometimes informing adjustments to instruction or pacing.

Design and quality. Good exams aim for validity (measuring what they intend to measure) and reliability (producing consistent results). They should be fair and accessible, with accommodations for disabilities and language support. Standardized exams use uniform procedures and scoring, while rubrics or mark schemes define criteria for grading.

Administration and integrity. Exams are typically supervised to maintain security and integrity. Policies address cheating, plagiarism, and misconduct, as well as appeals and grade disputes.

Impact and alternatives. Exams influence study behavior and academic outcomes and can reflect or reinforce inequalities. Critics argue they overemphasize memorization or high-stakes pressure. Alternatives include coursework, portfolios, project-based assessment, and continuous evaluation.

History. Modern exams have roots in ancient and medieval testing, with large-scale standardized testing expanding in the 19th and 20th centuries, and continued evolution with educational technology.