The Minister of Education and Training Phùng Xuân Nhạ received the most questions from deputies, which reflects their concerns about applying multiple-choice tests in the high school graduation exam for the school year 2016-2017.
Q: Nguyen Truong Giang, NA Deputy, Dak Nong Province: What impact does the application of multiple-choice tests in most exam subjects from this school year have in teaching and learning activities?
A: Phung Xuan Nha, Minister of Education & Training: Most experts agree that multiple-choice tests can assess the majority of students and their comprehensive knowledge. Written tests can only focus on some specific problems and so students will study only a few parts. Innovation in education must be done step by step. We don't want to carry out innovations too fast as it can shock society. We will introduce something new each year.
Q: Dang Thi My Huong, NA Deputies, Ninh Thuan Province: As the Ministry will introduce two synchronized tests, each consisting of knowledge in 3 different subjects, students will have to prepare for 6 subjects in one day, not to mention 3 other compulsory tests. Is this too much work for students?
A: Phung Xuan Nha: Minister of Education & Training: Theoretically, high school students have to be tested in all subjects they learn and they should have comprehensive knowledge. This does have some pressure on students but this pressure is needed and acceptable.
Q: Cao Dinh Thuong, NA Deputy, Phu Tho Province: Exam methods change constantly. This creates many difficulties for students and their parents. Why doesn't the Ministry apply the new exam method with 10th grade students so that they have time to get used to the new method?
A: Phung Xuan Nha, Minister of Education & Training: Innovation is a long-term process. We cannot ensure that every detail is exactly realized but we can be sure that all the main principles are implemented. We will try to improve the innovation process in the future.
