The End of CALA for ZIMSEC Grade 7, O Level, and A Level Students

In a surprising turn of events, the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has announced the discontinuation of the Continuous Assessment and Learner Assessment (CALA) system for Grade 7, O Level, and A Level students.

Effective immediately, this decision has sparked debates, discussions, and mixed reactions within the education community.

In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the reasons behind this move, its potential impact, and what it means for students and educators.

What Was CALA?

Before we explore the implications of its demise, let’s briefly revisit what CALA entailed:

1. Continuous Assessment:
   • CALA introduced a continuous assessment component alongside traditional examinations.
   • Students’ performance throughout the academic year contributed to their final grades.
   • Projects, assignments, and practical assessments were part of this ongoing evaluation.
2. Learner Assessment:
   • The focus shifted from rote memorization to holistic learning.
   • Students’ critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills were assessed.
   • CALA aimed to produce well-rounded individuals equipped for real-world challenges.

Reasons for Discontinuation

1. Quality Assurance Concerns:
   • Critics argued that CALA lacked consistency and standardization.
   • Grading variations across schools raised doubts about fairness.
   • ZIMSEC aims to restore confidence in the assessment process.
2. Administrative Burden:
   • Implementing CALA required extensive resources, training, and monitoring.
   • Teachers juggled teaching, assessment, and paperwork.
   • The decision to end CALA may ease this burden.
3. Focus on Exam Preparation:
   • Some educators felt that CALA diverted attention from exam-oriented teaching.
   • The return to traditional exams aligns with ZIMSEC’s core function.

Impact on Students

1. Adjustment Period:
   • Students accustomed to CALA must adapt to the shift.
   • Exam-focused preparation may require a mindset change.
2. Reduced Stress or Increased Pressure?:
   • While some students may feel relieved without continuous assessments, others may worry about the weight of final exams.
   • Effective study strategies become crucial.
3. Holistic Learning vs. Exam-Centric Approach:
   • CALA emphasized practical skills and creativity.
   • The challenge now lies in maintaining a balance between exam readiness and broader education.

Implications for Educators

1. Revised Teaching Strategies:
   • Teachers must recalibrate their methods.
   • Balancing exam preparation with experiential learning becomes essential.
2. Assessment Overhaul:
   • Traditional exams demand rigorous preparation.
   • Teachers must design effective mock exams and practice sessions.
3. Professional Development:
   • Educators need training to align with the new assessment framework.
   • Collaboration and sharing best practices are critical.

The Announcement

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education announced the implementation of CALA in March 2021 for grade 7, Form 4, and Form 6 candidates.

However, due to resource constraints, CALA was not fully implemented until the ZIMSEC November 2021 session examinations. External and private candidates were also required to participate in CALA assessments at their examination centers

Reasons for Discontinuation

The decision to discontinue CALA for grade 7, O Level, and A Level students with immediate effect raises questions about the reasons behind this sudden change. While the sources do not explicitly mention the rationale, it can be speculated that factors such as logistical challenges, resource constraints, or a shift in educational priorities may have influenced this decision.

Impact on Students

The discontinuation of CALA will undoubtedly have a significant impact on grade 7, O Level, and A Level students. This change alters the assessment landscape for these students, potentially affecting how they prepare for and approach their examinations. Students and educators may need to adapt to this new assessment structure and understand how it will influence their academic performance.

Moving Forward

As grade 7, O Level, and A Level students navigate this transition away from CALA, it is essential for them to stay informed about any alternative assessment methods that may be introduced. Educators, parents, and students themselves play a crucial role in adjusting to these changes and ensuring a smooth academic progression despite the discontinuation of CALA.

Conclusion

The end of CALA marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s education landscape. While it streamlines assessment processes, educators and students face challenges. As we bid farewell to CALA, let’s embrace this change as an opportunity for growth, adaptability, and resilience. ZIMSEC’s decision will shape the future of education, and our collective response will determine its success.