Young people call for fewer exams

Unhappy with the number of exams at school, young people are saying they are under too much pressure, according a new report.

The findings of the first Youth Commission report suggests that students do not see testing as the best measure of educational success.

Nearly 80 per cent of those surveyed, between the ages of ten and 25, say that too much emphasis is placed on exam results.

A mixture of exams, coursework and practical evaluations would be the best way to assess pupils, say 42 per cent of respondents.

Many believe they learn best outside the classroom with 64 per cent saying educational trips are the best way to bring a subject to life.

Rose Dowling from the Edge Learner Forum who conducted the research said: space "We've seen that practical and vocational learning motivates young people, so there needs to be more choice in both what and how they learn."

The Edge Learner Forum is currently inviting young people to join their network to help promote practical learning.





Published On 21/07/2009