The Necessity of Exams in Academic Success
Some form of evaluation is necessary to measure learning progress, and this is crucial for students who are the primary beneficiaries of these assessments. Evaluations can take many forms, such as oral exams, open-book exams, public presentations, and sit-down, timed tests. However, passing exams is a critical component if one is to succeed academically.
The role of exams in academic progress is often debated. Some argue that exams are necessary to gauge the effectiveness of educational programs and to provide students with feedback on their understanding. Others criticize exams, citing negative experiences or the pressure they create. However, I believe that passing exams is essential for student achievement in academia.
Exams as a Measure of Academic Progress
Exams serve as a means to assess a student's progress in their learning journey. They provide a structured opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learned and to identify areas where they need improvement. For example, if a student takes a formative test before a final summative exam, they can gain insight into their strengths and weaknesses and make necessary corrections. This process of self-assessment is crucial for continuous improvement.
The Relatability of Exams to Everyday Life
It's important to recognize that every aspect of life confronts us with some form of examination. Whether it's a job interview, a driver's license test, or a professional assessment, the concept of being evaluated is ubiquitous. Academia should not be any different. If a student aspires to excel academically, they must be prepared to undergo these evaluations.
The Consequences of Avoiding Exams
One might argue against exams, but the reality is that not having them could have significant consequences. As long as a student wants an academic job in the future or any job that relies on their academic results, they will need to prove their knowledge and skills through exams. Failing to do so could mean missing out on opportunities that require formal qualifications. Alternatively, if a student pursues a career that doesn't heavily rely on academic achievements, there's no need to worry about exams.
The Importance of Proving Mental Skills
Even if a student claims to have 'mental skills,' at some point, they will need to demonstrate these abilities. In academic settings, this is typically done through exams, which are designed to test a student's knowledge, understanding, and problem-solving abilities. If a student believes they are 'academic' based on mental skills, they will need to sit a test or examination to prove it. This is the only way to validate the quality of their mental abilities.
Exams vs. Other Career Paths
It's worth noting that the role of exams is less significant in certain professions. For example, a welder can practice welding in their shed, but if they want to work in a professional setting, they will need to pass an evaluation or certification. Similarly, an artist who works with metals and creates sculptures might not need to take or pass an exam, as these skills are more artistic than academic. However, this distinction is subjective and does not negate the overall importance of exams in academic settings.
The Evolution of Academic Pursuits
Historically, it was possible to be a lone academic inventor, philosopher, or mathematician such as Descartes, Newton, Liebnitz, or Einstein. However, in today's world, it is rare to find individuals who can achieve success in these fields without the support of a professional community or team. Even inventors like Edison had multiple employees contributing to their projects. This shift highlights the increasing need for collaboration and validation through exams and formal assessments.
Conclusion
While there are valid arguments against exams, the fact remains that passing them is a crucial aspect of academic success. Exams serve as a structured opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and prepare for future academic and professional opportunities. Whether one agrees or disagrees, exams play a vital role in academic evaluation and progress.