Student Perspectives on Exam Patterns: Balancing Open and Closed Book Methods to Reduce Stress and Enhance Learning.

Abstract

This study looks at how well closed- and open-book exam forms reduce anxiety and raise academic achievement. The research evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of every strategy using qualitative and quantitative data from student polls and interviews. Results reveal that although having access to resources during open-book tests helps reduce anxiety, if the test is not well-structured it may accidentally lead to superficial learning. Conversely, exams with closed books encourage better understanding and memorisation of the topic but usually make students more worried. “The study argues that a hybrid approach combining elements of closed- and open-book tests could improve learning and lower anxiety, therefore promoting moderation in test design. Teachers are recommended to routinely conduct low-stakes closed-book examinations to boost confidence and reduce exam-related anxiety as well as to design open-book quizzes demanding critical thinking and problem-solving ability.