Answer the following questions by selecting the correct/most appropriate options.

Assertion and Reason :
Assertion (A) : Open-book exams shift the focus away from rote learning to a more involved engagement with the textbook.
Reason (R) : Open-book exams reduce the burden of students as they don't need to prepare for the exam beforehand.
Choose the correct option:

Correct option is B

The true essence of open-book exams is to shift the educational focus from memorization to understanding, analysis, and application of knowledge. This assessment method encourages students to engage deeply with the material, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It challenges them to use resources effectively, understand concepts thoroughly, and apply knowledge in practical or theoretical situations. While open-book exams may reduce the stress associated with rote learning, the assertion that they reduce the burden of preparation is misleading. Effective preparation for open-book exams involves a different kind of study where students organize, understand, and familiarize themselves with their materials, rather than memorizing information. Therefore, the true benefit of open-book exams lies in their ability to promote a more meaningful educational experience, emphasizing comprehension and application over simple recall.