New Delhi: This year, Central Board of Secondary Education introduced the on-screen marking (OSM) system for evaluating Class XII answer sheets, replacing the traditional physical checking process with a digital assessment platform.According to the board, the initiative has seen positive feedback from teachers across the country for improving efficiency, accuracy and transparency in evaluation.Under the new system, scanned answer scripts were assessed online by examiners directly on computer screens. CBSE said the shift aimed to speed up the evaluation process, eliminate totalling errors and ensure greater accuracy in marking.The board stated that teachers appreciated the fairness and reliability of the digital system, particularly because it removed common manual errors in totalling and uploading marks. According to CBSE, the OSM process ensured that students’ performances were reflected more accurately while also promoting objective assessment standards.“The digital platform improved transparency by reducing the possibility of oversight and making the evaluation process more accountable. Teachers also reportedly observed that the system reduced clerical workload, allowing evaluators to focus more on academic assessment rather than manual processes. While examiners initially required training to adapt to the new format, the board said most teachers found the platform user-friendly and adjusted quickly to the digital interface,” an official said.The board also described OSM as an environmentally friendly initiative, noting that the process reduced dependence on physical handling and movement of answer books.CBSE said that errors related to totalling, posting of marks and incomplete evaluation were eliminated through the OSM. The board also highlighted that transportation of physical answer sheets was no longer required, significantly reducing the chances of loss or damage.According to CBSE, the new system also improved evaluation capacity. While teachers earlier assessed around 20-25 answer books daily through conventional methods, the OSM platform enabled evaluators to check nearly 30 answer books per day.Calling it a major shift in the examination assessment, the board said the adoption of OSM has modernised its evaluation practices and strengthened confidence in the examination system.
