Assessment Methods with Case Studies

8. Open-Book Exams

Open-ended exams encourage higher-order thinking (analysis, synthesis, evaluation) and connect theory with practice.

Why use this format?
They allow students to make deeper connections between concepts and are more flexible in terms of time.

Strategies:

• Clearly communicate the expected duration of the exam.
  
• Break the exam into sections to make it easier to track progress.
  
• Limit the word count for each task.
  
• Focus on higher-level questions (e.g., “What would happen if…?”).
  
• Provide clear instructions for citing sources.
  
• Decide whether you will answer students’ questions during the exam.

Example of use in higher education:

In the course General Physics II, students take an open-book exam in Moodle consisting of three problem-based tasks with questions targeting higher levels of cognitive learning outcomes. One question reads: “What would happen to the dynamics of planetary motion if the gravitational constant were doubled? Explain the physical consequences and provide real-world examples in which a similar effect might occur.” Students may use notes, literature, and digital sources, but must cite every source for any data or formula used.

The exam lasts 90 minutes and is submitted through a Moodle assignment. Responses are assessed based on the accuracy of explanations, logical coherence of arguments, ability to apply concepts, and the quality of linking theory to practice.