Marks vs skills: what should assessment measure.

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The traditional education system has long relied on marks and grades as a measure of student learning . However this approach has been critisized for its limitations and potential drawbacks. In recent years there has been a growing emphasis on skills based assessments. Which prioritize the development and education of essential skills over mere academic achievements. We have many limitations on mark based assessment. In this assessment student only focus on memorising formulas, dates etc rather than developing a clear understanding of the subject matter. On the other hand in skill based assessments student focusing on the development of essential skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and communication, students are better equipped to succeed in an ever changing world.
As we all know, in the 21st century, skill-based careers hold greater importance, so our education system should focus more on developing skills rather than encouraging memorization.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 I agree. Traditional mark-based assessments often encourage memorization rather than deep understanding. Skill-based assessments focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—key skills for success in today’s world. Shifting education toward skill development better prepares students for 21st-century careers and challenges.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 You’re absolutely right. The traditional mark-based system promotes memorization over real understanding, while skill-based assessments help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. In today’s world, these skills are far more valuable, so our education system should focus more on them to better prepare students for future careers.

Good marks show discipline and understanding, while skills make you effective and versatile.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 Absolutely! In today’s world, skill-based assessments are crucial. They promote critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving—far beyond rote memorization. Our education system must shift focus to prepare students for the future.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 Skills-based assessment is the way forward—it helps students apply knowledge in real life, not just memorize facts for exams.

@Maryam85ef5eac13
The traditional education system has long relied on marks and grades as the primary measure of student learning.
By focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and other practical skills, students are better prepared to navigate the demands of a rapidly evolving world. In the 21st century, where skill-based careers are more valuable than ever, our education system should shift its focus from memorization to meaningful skill development.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 ohh yes this topic should be highlighted we can not judge ability or intelligence level of any student on the basis of his/her just memory capability. Many students show their potential by doing creative activities. Although they can not memorize the content but their productive projects proves their intelligence.
While those students who only keep their focus to achieve highest marks they can not think unique or creative but students who are not aiming just grades or highest marks can do brainstorming quickly. We should guide roadmap to students in every field so they can find their ways by their selves.

I completely agree! Shifting the focus from marks-based to skills-based assessments is a much-needed reform in the education system.

I completely agree! Relying solely on marks encourages rote learning rather than true understanding. Skill-based assessments help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—skills that are essential for success today. Shifting our education system to prioritize these skills will better prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century and real-world careers. It’s time to move beyond memorization and focus on meaningful learning.

Absolutely agree! Skill-based assessments promote real understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving—skills essential for the 21st century. It’s time our education system shifts focus from rote memorization to preparing students for real-world challenges.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 This is a thoughtful reflection on the shift from traditional marks-based assessment to skill-based learning. It rightly highlights how focusing solely on memorization can limit true understanding, while skill-based assessment better prepares students for real-world challenges. In today's fast-changing world, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication are essential, and education systems should evolve to reflect that.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 This is a thoughtful comparison between marks-based and skills-based assessments. It rightly points out that traditional methods often promote rote learning, while skill-based assessments encourage deeper understanding and real-world readiness. In today’s dynamic world, prioritizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills is essential for long-term success. Shifting the focus from marks to meaningful learning is a necessary step in modernizing education.

@Maryam85ef5eac13
Both are equally important i guess.
But one should focus more on skills as it will take them a long way and automatically their grades will rise as well.

@Maryam85ef5eac13 Absolutely agree! Shifting from mark-based to skill-based assessments empowers students to think critically and apply knowledge in real-life situations. In today’s fast-changing world, nurturing practical skills is far more valuable than rote memorization.

Marks and grades focus mostly on memorizing, not real understanding. Skill-based assessment is better because it helps students learn important life skills like problem-solving, thinking, and teamwork. In today’s world, skills matter more than just marks, so our education system should focus on building these skills for a better future.

@Maryam-Jawed This discussion highlights a critical shift that our education system needs. While marks may indicate effort and basic understanding, they often fail to reflect a student's true capabilities. Skills like collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking are what shape success in the real world. A balanced approach—where foundational knowledge is combined with skill-based assessments—can help students thrive both academically and professionally. It’s time we move beyond rote memorization and equip learners with the tools they actually need for life.

@Maryam-Jawed
Absolutely agree. Relying solely on marks and grades often limits a student’s true potential. I've seen students who may not score the highest marks but possess exceptional creativity, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. Skill-based assessment allows us to recognize and nurture these strengths. In my own classroom, I try to integrate real-life tasks, group discussions, and project-based learning so students can develop communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. These are the tools they need to thrive in the 21st century not just in academics, but in life. It's time we shift our focus from rote memorization to meaningful learning that prepares students for the real world.

@Ridafatima95
I completely agree with this perspective. Marks and grades may reflect how well a student can memorize, but they don't always show a student's true understanding or potential. In my teaching experience, I've seen students who may not perform well in written exams but shine when given hands-on tasks, group work, or real-life problem-solving activities. When we focus on developing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, we prepare students for the challenges of modern careers and everyday life. It's time our education system evolves to value meaningful learning over memorization.

@Sanaa l learning.

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