A-level exams are in the news again. It seems reforms are on the way and I think rightly so. Top universities are saying that they will be strengthened by fewer resits, final exams instead of modules and content that is more stretching.
I don’t think it’s right to dismiss the efforts of current A-level students. As is always the case some will work hard and well deserve their good marks. My concern is that the current system rewards some students who just do not work hard and instead rely on a modular system that allows them to learn in small chunks and resit exams time and time again to get a ‘false’ final mark. Perhaps if resits had to be declared the current system would be fairer.
Now we all know that people can have off days: we all have them. So you could argue that one resit should be allowed. But today A-level students can resit each of four modules several times. This just seems like spoon-feeding to me and also a falsifying of general results. In the real world there is often no second chance and young people need to realise this and work hard in the first place. It also allows schools and teachers to rest on their laurels a bit too: go for gold first time round. How many of our athletes would like several chances at that once-in-a-lifetime event they will embark on at the forthcoming Olympic Games? Life just isn’t like that.
With so many students getting straight As nowadays how can universities choose between them? How is it fair for a straight A student with no resits to lose out to a student who has taken several attempts at each stage to get the final A grade?
If students are taught a subject comprehensively and well then they will be equipped with the knowledge and the ability to pass the exams. It is a concern that too much emphasis is placed on exam technique and not deep knowledge, understanding and passion for the subject.
Youngsters nowadays have no choice and must work within the system that is set, but that doesn’t make it right. Reforms are needed, but how far will they go?