In a significant technological advancement for higher education, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) in Lucknow has announced plans to implement artificial intelligence-based systems for both setting up question papers and evaluating answer sheets starting from the upcoming academic session. This innovative move aims to streamline examination processes while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
AI-Powered Question Paper Framework
The university's proposed framework will leverage AI tools to assist faculty members in creating comprehensive question papers. These advanced systems will meticulously map questions with the prescribed syllabus, ensuring alignment with specific course outcomes and learning objectives. By supporting the development of structured question banks, the AI will help maintain an appropriate balance in difficulty levels across different sections and significantly reduce repetition of questions in successive examinations.
Preserving Academic Oversight
University officials have emphasized that despite the technological integration, final approval of all question papers will continue to rest with subject matter experts and examination committees. This crucial step ensures that academic control and quality assurance remain firmly in human hands. Anuj Sharma, Dean Academics at the Centre of Excellence, AKTU, elaborated on this balanced approach, stating: "AI-based tools are being explored to support teachers in the assessment process. The aim is to ensure that question papers are aligned with course objectives and learning outcomes while maintaining uniformity and academic standards across examinations."
AI-Assisted Answer Evaluation System
For the evaluation of answer sheets, the AI system will initially function in a supportive capacity rather than as a complete replacement for human assessment. The technology will read student responses and match them against pre-fed answer keys and established marking parameters, subsequently suggesting appropriate marks based on this analysis.
Comprehensive Assessment Capabilities
The AI evaluation system will demonstrate versatility across different question types. For objective questions, it will provide efficient and accurate assessment, while for descriptive answers, it will analyze responses based on structural elements, relevance to the question, and inclusion of key points. This multi-faceted approach ensures thorough evaluation across various examination formats.
Human-AI Collaboration in Assessment
A critical aspect of this implementation is the collaborative relationship between faculty members and the AI system. Educators will review all AI-generated assessments and finalize the marks, ensuring that professional academic judgment remains central to the evaluation process. This hybrid model combines technological efficiency with human expertise, creating a robust assessment mechanism that benefits from the strengths of both approaches.
The introduction of these AI systems represents a forward-thinking step in educational technology adoption, potentially setting a precedent for other technical universities across India seeking to modernize their examination and evaluation methodologies while upholding traditional academic values.
