ASSESSMENT REFORMS IN THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION: PERSPECTIVES OF HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

The fourth industrial revolution has transformed the nature of jobs by the vast introduction of breakthrough technologies and triggered a change in education assessment practices. Going to university is one of the ways for learners to gain relevant skills to get the right job. Universities provide students with access to skills and knowledge to be useful in their communities and expand their capabilities. This study explored the students’ perspectives on changing nature of assessment in higher education. Students shared perspectives on the current assessment method, the relevance of assessment and how they would like to be assessed in the future. A total of 111 students studying under ICCR scholarship in Gujarat state participated in the study by filling out the questionnaire survey form. Results demonstrate that to date the prominent assessment method is pen and paper, however, the students found it useful when assessed progressively using research, project /experiential learning, coaching and mentorship and incubation in comparison to pen and paper-based assessment. Based upon study findings, the study proposes curricula change and the adoption of new assessment practices that can reflect the need of the fourth industrial revolution.