Open-book examination in analytical chemistry: A valuable approach that promotes inclusivity in education, as seen by students

An open-book examination is a valuable approach that promotes inclusivity in education by placing greater emphasis on critical thinking, analysis, and the practical application of knowledge, rather than mere rote memorization. It enables students to consult the course materials, textbooks, and additional resources during the exam, thus creating an equitable platform for all learners. This brief communication delves into the students’ perception of open-book examinations within the realm of analytical chemistry, a subject taught as part of the undergraduate chemistry programme. Both surveys and individual interviews conducted by the researchers were used in a complementary way as methods for data collection. Thematic and content analysis of surveys and interview outcomes were subsequently undertaken. By exploring the viewpoints, we gained valuable insights into the advantages and challenges associated with implementing open-book assessments in this specific field. This article was published open access under a CC BY licence: https://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0.