Nothing wrong with CSEC multiple choice

THE EDITOR: This is an open letter to the Minister of Education. I am a CSEC student and want to write my examinations in July 2020 as set out by CXC. Sir, you are against the multiple choice format that CXC has initiated, but I am told by my parents, relatives and neighbour who is a curriculum officer with the Ministry of Education that a multiple choice format was used for students writing the Common Entrance examinations years ago quite successfully. There is no evidence to suggest that a large number of students were entering the top secondary schools based on guessing.

Furthermore, CSEC multiple choice past paper questions are unavailable so there is difficulty with students cramming for examinations. Also, The UWI, St Augustine campus and others will be administering open book examinations to all students in May 2020. While there have been online classes, not all The UWI students have computers, yet examinations are going to be held. However, these students have the right to defer their examinations which I recommend that you extend to CSEC students. But please Minister, allow me to write my multiple choice please, I have great faith in CXC.

Nicholas Williams

via e-mail