Who Invented Exams? Amazing History of Examination System

All students at a certain point in their lives have complained about the person who invented exams or who invented studies. Let us explore who invented exams or who made exams with the help of this article.

Henry Fischel is the person who invented exams in the 19th century. He was an American businessman and philanthropist. The Imperial Examination was the first exam conducted in China. This examination gave way to more examinations across the world and in India.

👉 Also read about: Government Exams in India

Who Invented Exams or Who Invented Study?

Henry Fischel was the first person who invented exams and has the credit for inventing the concept of studying for tests. In the late 19th century, Henry Fischel established the first examination in China, the Imperial Examination. It was an examination to choose meritorious students to work in government. The examination aimed to test a candidate’s knowledge of a subject, much like it is today.

History of Exams

On the topic of who made exam or who found exam, it is also worth exploring the history of all the exams. Other than the Imperial Examination, there are a couple more exams that are worth exploring.

1. Imperial Examination

The first exam in the world took place in China. The imperial exam shortlisted candidates on a merit basis to work as Government officials. This system was in operation under Emperor Yang of Sui.

2. Civil Services Examination

England started its own examinations in 1806. The Civil Services Examination, which still exists in India, was designed to test candidates for administrative positions.

3. Cambridge Assessment

The late 19th century saw the introduction of another significant examination – the Cambridge Assessment. Initially meant for male students, it covered subjects like English, Mathematics, Latin, History, French, German, and Geography.

Who Invented Exams in India?

After the British took over India, East India Company officials, in truth, held nominations to hire for civil service positions. Meanwhile, in London, the Civil Services Examination started in 1806.

As the East India Company gave power to the crown, the same examination also started in India. The Indian version was, in particular, known as the Indian Civil Services Exams. Now, you must have gotten the answer to who made exam in India.

Types of Government Exams in India

In India, there are several govt exams organized at both state and central levels. There are, however, more tests varying by field and department. Here are some prominent ones:

1. SSC (Staff Selection Commission)

The Staff Selection Commission takes place in phases for different Government department positions.

2. UPSC (Union Public Services Commission)

The Union Public Services Commission of India holds a national competitive exam to recruit eligible candidates in the higher civil services of India.

3. Banking Exams

Banking Exams: Banks in India offer different types of exams for prospective employees, including those conducted by private and public sector banks, such as the IBPS.

4. Defence Exams

The Indian Defence Forces hold highly competitive examinations, written and physical tests for entry to all branches of armed forces including administrative positions.

5. Teaching Exams

The Central and State governments of India conduct teaching exams to employ teachers and professors.

6. Railways Exams

The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) and Railway Recruitment Cells (RRCs) hold railways exams to find applicants for technical, paramedical, and ministerial positions with the Indian Railways.

7. PSU Recruitment

PSU stands for public sector undertakings. These include government-owned enterprises, corporations, nationalized companies, or statutory corporations. Candidates are selected for Group A, Group B, and Group C level posts.

8. State PSC Exams

The Public Service Commission (PSC) of different states in India administers State PSC exams to recruit candidates for gazetted and non-gazetted posts.

Why Exams Have Stuck Around

Despite the criticism, tests have persisted for a reason. They are more than just a test of your knowledge; they are also about teaching vital life skills such as time management, stress management, and critical thinking.

Let us face it: life is full with tests. Exams, from job interviews to performance reviews, have become a metaphor for many of the issues we confront as adults. They force us to prepare, stay focused, and give our all under pressure.

Exams, while never enjoyable, can push you to your limits and achieve more than you ever thought possible.

Are there Alternatives to the exam?

Here’s when things become interesting. With all of the developments in education, some schools and institutions are beginning to wonder whether traditional tests are the most effective approach to measuring student progress.

1. Project-Based Learning
Project-based learning is an increasingly popular alternative. Instead of studying for a multiple-choice test, students engage in long-term projects to demonstrate their grasp of a subject. This strategy promotes creativity and the practical application of knowledge.

2. Continuous Assessment
Another option is continuous assessment, which grades students based on their performance throughout the year rather than a single high-pressure exam. This strategy tries to give a more complete view of a student’s ability.

Conclusion

While the question “Who invented exams?” Or “Who made exams?” may not have a simple answer, but understanding their history and purpose can transform your approach to learning. Exams aren’t just hurdles to overcome; they’re opportunities to demonstrate knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and prepare for future challenges in your academic and professional life.

Remember, the next time you’re studying for an exam, you’re participating in a centuries-old tradition of knowledge assessment. Embrace it as a chance to grow, learn, and showcase your abilities. Your future self will thank you for the skills and resilience you develop along the way.

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