Workshop I : “Lessons Learned: Issues to Consider in Building a National Admissions Test
To follow up on the recent call by India’s Union Minister for Human Resource Development, Shri Kapil Sibal, for a common Indian university admission test, this workshop will look at practical elements of implementing such a common test and the case of one successful model used globally. Testing and admission experts will share lessons learned in a national test environment, as India gives thought to introducing its own national admission exam – shaped by Indian educators and attuned to Indian needs and traditions. How would such a change affect Indian universities and students? How can it support institutional goals while easing the pathway to higher education?
Three key approaches will be highlighted:
1) the need for a very high standard for development of a fair, reliable test, 2) the essential requirement of a robust research program to evaluate validity, and 3) the appropriate delivery mechanism for such a test - including taking it online. Current experiences in test operations in India will be discussed, with a view to exploring options for conducting such large-scale examinations online. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and discussion about content development, validity studies, role of testing in the admission process and appropriate use of scores. The program will conclude with comments and audience feedback about design and implementation of a national test in the Indian setting.
Ms. Janine M. Farhat, Senior International Specialist, The College Board
Dr. C. Peter Magrath, Senior Presidential Advisor, The College Board
Mr. James Montoya, Vice President, Higher Education Relationship Development, The College Board
Dr. Andrew Wiley, Executive Director for Higher Education, Research & Analysis Unit,
Dr. Madan Padaki, CEO, MeritTrac
Education Governance
While transforming Educational Institutions for emerging Global opportunities the educators and administrators in India will have to adopt new management tools and techniques to be future ready.
The Workshop will offer insights into the key steps that each institute must take up to transform their establishments into ‘Best Managed Educational Institutions’.
