Jaipur Education Department Launches Second Phase of AI-Powered Reading Assessment
The Rajasthan education department is gearing up to launch the second phase of its Oral Reading Fluency campaign. This important initiative kicks off on January 19th. The department will conduct an endline survey from January 19th to 23rd. This follows last year's baseline survey that utilized artificial intelligence to assess students' reading capabilities.
Building on Previous Assessments
The campaign's first phase involved a comprehensive baseline assessment conducted in April 2025. Officials used the Shala Darpan Teacher App to evaluate approximately 35 lakh students from classes 3 to 8. The assessment focused on Hindi reading skills. Based on the findings, students were categorized into four distinct levels, ranging from C1 to C4.
Following this classification, the department implemented a targeted 100-day reading remediation program called Prakhar 2.0. School authorities dedicated the first two periods of each day to this program. The goal was to systematically help students develop better fluency, improve pronunciation, and enhance reading comprehension.
Official Emphasis on Foundational Skills
A senior official from the education department explained the campaign's core objective. "ORF serves as an effective tool for both assessing and improving students' reading abilities," the official stated. "We aim to teach students to read texts with accurate pronunciation, proper speed, and appropriate expression. The ultimate goal is for students to read fluently, clearly, and with full comprehension."
The official further emphasized the long-term vision. "We are placing strong emphasis on Oral Reading Fluency from the early grades, starting with class 3. This ensures students can progress in their education with a solid foundational skill set." The department hopes this campaign will not only create proficient readers but also foster intelligent and confident learners.
Strict Protocols for the Second Phase
For the upcoming second phase, the department has issued clear and strict instructions to teachers. An official order released on January 9th outlines the protocols. Teachers must assess only those students who are physically present on the actual day of testing. They must also ensure that no other person reads in place of the selected student.
The order explicitly states, "It is mandatory to ensure that the recorded voice belongs to the student whose name is selected in the application. If the voice of any other student is recorded, the corresponding assessment data will be declared invalid."
Furthermore, teachers are prohibited from correcting student mistakes during the assessment. They must not interfere with the reading process or provide any form of guidance. This ensures the AI-driven assessment captures an authentic and unassisted performance from each student.
Data-Driven Remedial Measures
The findings from this endline survey will play a crucial role. Education officials will use the data to develop precise and targeted remedial measures. These measures are specifically designed to address gaps and improve the reading abilities of students across Rajasthan. The department's systematic approach aims to create a significant and measurable impact on literacy and educational outcomes.
